There was singing, there was dancing and good cheer all around as people participated in a Christmas parade in the US state of Wisconsin. The mood suddenly turned funereal as an SUV plowed into the parade killing five and injuring 40 people, said police.
"Oh my God, oh my God, no" shrieks went up as the red SUV tore through the barricades running over people, as seen in a chilling video from the scene.
The incident occurred just after 4:30 pm (2230 GMT), as spectators in the town of Waukesha, a Milwaukee suburb, watched the annual tradition.
According to bystanders and footage, the SUV sped into the parade behind a school marching band.
A total of 11 adults and 12 children were taken to six area hospitals, Fire Chief Steven Howard told reporters.
A "person of interest" has been taken into custody, said police, adding that officers had recovered the involved vehicle.
During the incident an officer did fire at the SUV in an attempt to stop it, the authorities added.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers said he and his wife were "praying for Waukesha tonight and all the kids, families, and community members affected by this senseless act."
