Tragedy in Carlisle: DUI Driver Slams Into Couple on Sidewalk, Killing Woman, Injuring Husband
CARLISLE, Pa. — A quiet Friday evening in downtown Carlisle turned into a scene of devastation when a vehicle mounted a sidewalk and struck two elderly pedestrians, leaving one dead and the other critically injured. Authorities have charged a local man in connection with the incident, which they allege was fueled by intoxication behind the wheel.
According to the Carlisle Police Department, the incident occurred around 8:17 p.m. on May 23, at the intersection of South Hanover Street and West Pomfret Street. Officers say 57-year-old Martin Leroy Brinton drove his vehicle onto the sidewalk, striking a 73-year-old woman and a 74-year-old man who were walking together.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene and immediately transported both victims to a nearby hospital. Tragically, the woman succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. The male victim remains hospitalized in critical condition, fighting for his life.
In a release issued late Friday night, police confirmed that Brinton was under the influence at the time of the crash. While the specific substance involved has not yet been disclosed, police emphasized that impairment played a central role in the collision.
Brinton was initially taken to an area hospital for evaluation before being transferred to Cumberland County Prison. He now faces felony charges, including homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence and aggravated assault by vehicle while DUI—charges that carry the potential for significant prison time if convicted.
“This is an absolutely heartbreaking case,” said a spokesperson for the Carlisle Police Department. “Two lives were devastated in an instant due to one individual’s reckless decision to drive under the influence. We extend our deepest sympathies to the victims’ families.”
The names of the victims have not been released as authorities continue to notify next of kin. The investigation remains active, and law enforcement is working to gather additional evidence, including surveillance footage from nearby businesses and blood test results from Brinton.
Local residents expressed shock and sorrow in the aftermath of the incident. The intersection where the crash occurred is located in a typically bustling, pedestrian-friendly area near restaurants and small shops. Many community members frequent the area for evening walks.
“This is such a peaceful place,” said Anna Reyes, a local shop owner whose business is located just steps from the crash site. “To hear something like this happened right outside is terrifying. Those poor people were just out enjoying their evening.”
Friday’s incident has reignited calls from community advocates for increased awareness around impaired driving. Pennsylvania, like many states, has seen fluctuating rates of DUI-related crashes in recent years, with many officials noting the growing concern over both alcohol and drug-impaired driving.
As the community mourns, a memorial of flowers has begun to appear near the scene of the crash. Neighbors and passersby have stopped to pay respects, some leaving notes of sympathy on a lamppost beside the sidewalk.
The Carlisle Police Department is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant video footage to come forward as the investigation continues.
Brinton remains in custody as of Saturday evening and is expected to be arraigned in the coming days. A preliminary hearing will likely be scheduled within the next two weeks.