COVENTRY, R.I. — A frightening scene unfolded in Coventry late Monday afternoon when a car crashed through the fence at Child Care Plus Learning Center on South Main Street, injuring five children.
According to officials, about 15 children were outside on the playground shortly after 4:30 p.m. when the vehicle came speeding toward the area. The car struck the fence, knocking down several children who had been playing nearby.
Central Coventry Fire Chief Kevin Kady confirmed that five children, all around 7 or 8 years old, were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Parents of the children were immediately notified.
Witnesses described a chaotic but quick response as staff and bystanders rushed to help. Justin Czar, who owns a lumber shop across the street, said he saw the crash and noted the fence’s design helped prevent more serious injuries.
“Thankfully the poles stopped the car from going further,” Czar said. “It could have been a lot worse, but the most important thing is the kids are going to be okay.”
Police said the driver, described as a young woman with two children in the car, was not injured. Her vehicle was towed from the scene as investigators worked to determine what caused the crash.
The daycare remained closed following the incident as crews assessed the damage to the playground area.
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