Wildwood, N.J. (AP) — At least two people in golf carts died after a pop-up car rally in southern New Jersey over the weekend resulted in multiple crashes, officials said.
Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron told NJ Advance Media on Sunday that there had been a series of crashes related to “unapproved” car party events, NJ.com reported. Byron said the two victims were “in a golf cart” but were not believed to have been involved in the event. The mayor had no further information on the identity of the victims or the nature of the crash.
WCAU-TV reported on damaged storefronts and a knocked-over traffic meter seen during cleanup efforts on Sunday morning, and said Cape May prosecutors reported one person was detained in connection with the fatal crash.
Officials had earlier warned of what they called a different unsanctioned rally than the Fall Classic auto show in Wildwood. Participants said the event offered fans a chance to gather and inspect cars, but officials in other areas, including Ocean City, Maryland, have reported problems with the event in previous years.
According to NJ.com, videos on social media showed the modified vehicle revving its engine and accelerating to the cheers of the crowd gathered in the street. WCAU-TV said posts on social media showed people lounging outside the car as the driver turned in circles, also showing burnout, drifting and crashes.
NJ Advance Media reported on three damaged vehicles at the scene of an accident, one of which crashed into a building.
“These cars are outrageous, speeding down the street, the noise is unbelievable,” Angel Fioravanti told the station. “It was scary because I saw people trying to get off the pavement and into the street, And the car… weaving in and out of traffic, starting the engine, and making a lot of noise. It does.”
The Wildwood Commission said in a social media post that the mayor has sought additional support from the governor and state police and other police departments as far away as Atlantic City are responding.
“Every available police and fire patrol was called, and despite being severely understaffed, they did a great job as dispatch worked very hard to keep up with calls,” the committee said, asking people to stay indoors.
Hundreds of people also turned up in a Midtown parking lot Friday night, Mayor Tim Donahue said in a statement, NJ.com reported. “There is still a lot to learn about the reckless chaos that has been seen on our streets this weekend,” he said, vowing to conduct a “thorough investigation” and criminal charges.
“Our prayers go out to those who were mercilessly killed and maimed in the overnight chaos in Wildwood,” he said. “The scene is horrific.”
Wildwood and North Wildwood police earlier vowed to send additional staff on duty following reports of multiple “pop-up meetings” over the weekend. “We want everyone to have a good time at Wildwood’s Fall Classic Car Show and the Irish Fall Festival here, but we won’t tolerate nonsense,” North Wildwood Police Chief John Stevenson said.