PELLA, Iowa (WHO-TV) -- Officials with the Iowa State Patrol say three people were killed and two were injured when a pickup truck barreled through the front doors of the Walmart in Pella Thursday morning.
The 911 call came in at 9:54 a.m. about a truck that drove through the meat and grocery area of the Walmart. Sgt. Nathan Ludwig with the Iowa State Patrol says it appears the incident was not intentional.
The names of the victims have not been released but Sgt. Ludwig says none of them were children. The driver of the pickup truck is one of the two injured people who were transported to the hospital. Their conditions are unknown.
The investigation into what caused the crash continues.
"Again, it's a terrible tragedy. Our hearts go out to our family members and friends. Those who were there, and had to witness this, it's certainly a tragedy," said Pella Police Chief Robert Bokinsky. "There were a number of people who did witness this occur, that did leave the scene. And we would like to hear from them, just so we can do an appropriate and thorough reconstruction of what happened here."
The store is closed and people are being asked to avoid the area. If you witnessed the accident, you can call the Pella Police Department and share your account at 641-628-4921.
A spokesperson for Walmart released the following statement to Channel 13:
"We're heartbroken by what appears to be a tragic accident.
Our focus right now is on our associates, customers and gathering information. We will continue working closely with law enforcement and emergency responders."
