Unfortunately, this Queen's Day turned into a tragedy when shortly before noon a man in a car drove through some crowds along the way of the royal family's parade. He was apparently aiming towards the family, but instead ran straight on into a statue. Five people died, twelve more were injured, including three children (youngest was 9 years old), and a few police officers. The driver died early this morning as well. It was truly shocking news here in The Netherlands and ruined Queen's Day for 2009 and has undoubtedly changed Queen's Day forever. Most all festivities around the country were canceled or cut short yesterday, and the flags were lowered to half mast. See a news report about the attack here or here.
Updated to add that there has been another death this afternoon bringing the count to six plus the driver.
2 comments:
What a tragedy. I sincerely hope that after short memorial events that future Queen's Days will continue to be the wonderful celebrations they always have been.
Evie certainly appeared to enjoy herself and it would be a shame to not have that joy in the future.
Oh my goodnes. I cant believe we didnt hear anything about it over here, im so sorry for everyone involved. How awful.
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