8 injured after driver crashes into church during Sunday service

Car slams into Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopalian Church

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. – Eight people were injured Sunday when a car crashed into a Miami Gardens church.

The crash happened shortly after noon at the Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopalian Church.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said eight people were taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital. One of the victims had to be airlifted.

"We heard a loud noise," witness Virginia Brice said. "I thought it was a bomb."

Witnesses said a driver swerved to avoid another car, lost control and crashed into the church. 

Pieces of concrete were scattered on the floor and on the upholstered church pews.

"There was some concrete and other building materials that caused most of the injuries, but the car did not actually come in and hit anyone, so we were really blessed," the Rev. Rogery Adams told Local 10 News.

Adams was leading services at the time. He said parishioners were quick to help others who were injured.

"For this to be something that we've not experienced before, everyone responded really well, so we're grateful," Adams said.

Correction: The church is located in Miami Gardens, but near to Opa-locka. 


About the Authors:

The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.