At the highly anticipated South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas, a disastrous hit and run left two dead and 23 injured. Vans decided to step in and raise profits for the victims and their families. The SXSW Cares Fundraised $20,000 in donations on Thursday, at their Vans Village retail store.
It’s also possible to donate through the Vans website through purchasing Vans Band Re-issues and on SXSW Cares website. All proceeds will automatically go to a community-based program where monetary offerings will be spread accordingly.
"Today, Vans grieves alongside everyone in the city of Austin at South by Southwest for the innocent lives taken last night on Red River St.," the company said, according to Rolling Stone.
. "We are deeply saddened by this senseless tragedy. . . We are sincerely thankful for the immediate response and care given to those affected by dedicated Austin professionals. The entire Vans family mourns for those lost and holds all those injured in our thoughts."
The driver, 21-year-old Rashad Charjuan Owens was arrested and charged after the incident. He was driving a stolen automobile at the time of the accident and has been charged for pervious offenses including criminal trespass. Police have reason to believe Owens “intentionally” drove into a crowd, as reported by US Magazine.
Eight of 23 casualties are being hospitalized—two are in critical condition, three in serious condition and three are hospitalized and seems there aren’t any life threatening injuries.