BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — A City of Buffalo Parks Department employee is on administrative leave after he struck parked vehicles, a light pole, and a residence while driving a city dump truck on Niagara Street Sunday morning.
The incident occurred just after 10:20 a.m., when the driver, 35-year-old Vernon Harris, was traveling southbound on Niagara Street.
The truck ended up leaving the roadway and struck a light pole, several parked vehicles in a parking lot, and a residence, causing possible structural damage.
The incident was caught on a nearby surveillance camera, showing the truck narrowly missing hitting a child, who was walking on a sidewalk along Niagara Street.
CLOSE CALL: A DPW dump truck just missed hitting a child before losing control along Niagara Street on Sunday.
— Kristen Mirand WKBW (@kristen_mirand) July 3, 2023
The truck ended up striking several parked cars, a light pole and a home on Austin Street. @WKBW pic.twitter.com/tfGCMFgPHA
Harris was taken to ECMC by ambulance after the incident to be treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Harris was later issued two vehicle and traffic summons: speed not prudent and unlicensed operation of a vehicle.
The city Department of Public Works additionally placed Harris on administrative leave pending a further review of the incident.
Harris remains at ECMC where he continues to be treated for his injuries.
