In a harrowing reminder of the dangers of impaired driving, police in Apache Junction, Arizona, have reported that 30 people were injured Saturday night when a 73-year-old man drove into the side of a crowded Elks Lodge building. The driver, Thomas Edward Kain, was arrested at the scene. Authorities have confirmed that alcohol was a contributing factor in the crash.
The shocking incident occurred as Kain was reportedly attempting to leave the Elks Lodge parking lot when, instead of safely exiting, he drove his vehicle into the building. The structure was occupied at the time, and the crash injured dozens, ranging from minor scrapes to critical trauma.
The mass-casualty incident prompted an immediate and multi-agency emergency response. According to police:
At least 10 victims were transported to local hospitals
One person was listed in critical but stable condition
15 people were treated on-site for minor injuries
An additional 5 individuals sought hospital care independently
Fortunately, no fatalities were reported, but the physical and emotional aftermath remains extensive for both victims and their families.
Thomas Edward Kain was taken into custody and booked in Pinal County Jail. Jail records confirm his detention, although no court records were immediately available. Kain has not issued a public statement and did not respond to calls for comment.
Police have yet to disclose Kain's blood alcohol content (BAC) or whether any formal charges beyond DUI are expected. Authorities did, however, emphasize the broader consequences of the incident, stating, “This accident shows just how dangerous it can be to drink and drive. Alcohol impairs your ability to drive safely by reducing your reaction time and decision-making skills.”
The Apache Junction Elks Lodge issued a public statement expressing concern and support for those impacted. On their Facebook page, the organization said:
“In response to the unfortunate incident at the Apache Junction Elks Lodge last night, we want to express our heartfelt sympathy and support for all those impacted.”
The Lodge also shared the number for a crisis support hotline, underscoring the emotional and psychological toll this event has had on attendees and community members alike.
The City of Apache Junction echoed this sentiment in an official statement, saying, “We want everyone to remember that drunk driving can have serious consequences, not just for the driver but for everyone around them.”
This incident adds to a growing number of high-profile drunk driving crashes that demonstrate the devastating potential of impaired decision-making behind the wheel. While the public often associates DUI incidents with high-speed road collisions, this case proves that the danger extends into communal and social spaces as well.
From weddings and family events to fundraisers and veterans’ gatherings, no public venue is immune to the ripple effects of impaired driving.
Beyond physical injuries, the survivors of such events may experience long-term emotional trauma, including:
PTSD and anxiety in public places
Financial strain from medical bills
Loss of employment or independence
Prolonged recovery periods impacting quality of life
Victims of drunk driving incidents have significant legal rights, both in criminal and civil court. While criminal charges hold offenders accountable to the state, civil lawsuits can provide direct compensation to victims for:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Property damage
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
In cases involving gross negligence, such as extreme intoxication or injury to multiple people, punitive damages may also be awarded.
Victims may also have claims against third parties, including the establishments that overserved alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals, under dram shop liability laws.
At Haggard Crime Victim Attorney, we stand with the victims of impaired driving — not just as lawyers, but as passionate advocates for justice and accountability. Crashes like the one at the Apache Junction Elks Lodge show the devastating consequences of one reckless decision. We are here to ensure that those responsible — including any negligent third parties — are held fully accountable.
Our team has extensive experience in handling DUI injury cases in Florida, and we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation on your behalf.
If you or a loved one was injured in a drunk driving incident, contact Haggard Crime Victim Attorney today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re here to help you take the next step toward recovery.
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