Wildwood’s “pop-up” car rally degenerated into chaos on Saturday night when at least one vehicle struck a building. Police responded to multiple incidents and helicopters flew the injured to hospital.
The number of people who were injured in the H2oi (or H2022) event is still unknown by police. Wildwood Mayor Pete Byron was unable to reach him by phone late Saturday. He said that it was a “cluster you know what” down there right now, but that he could provide details. The gathering took place previously in Ocean City, Maryland.
There, authorities were faced with speeding cars and large crowds. Many Wildwood residents posted videos on social media Saturday night showing modified cars revving up and tearing through traffic lights while large crowds watched from the sidewalk.
Late Saturday night, NJ Advance Media witnessed three vehicles damaged at the scene in an accident close to Bagel Time Cafe on Atlantic Avenue. One of the cars had hit the building. An SUV from the state medical examiner’s office was also present.
Another accident that involved a car with a golf cart was captured on video and photos posted to social media. One video shows the car taking off at high speed and then colliding in the distance. “Oh my God,” a voice said. “Please dial 911!”
A public Facebook page was created to promote the event, but it was removed after Saturday’s accidents. Officials from Wildwood had warned that the event would not be sanctioned and that police would have “zero tolerance” for traffic violations.