(Washington) A child injured Sunday by a driver who threw his car into a crowd of a Christmas parade in Wisconsin died, bringing the death toll to six dead and at least 62 injured, authorities said on Tuesday. the appearance of the accused.
Darrell Brooks Jr, 39, is being prosecuted for five intentional homicides, and a sixth charge will be added, said Deputy Prosecutor Susan Opper.
He is accused of intentionally throwing his SUV vehicle into a crowd participating in or attending the annual parade in Waukesha, a small town near Milwaukee.
He appeared before a city court judge, who officially set out the five charges against him, each of which carries a life sentence.
“I would unfortunately like to report to the court that we have learned of the death of another child in this case,” said Mme Opper, indicating that a sixth charge would be announced soon.
The accused kept his head down for most of the hearing, appearing to sob at times.
“There are no words to describe the risks that this accused poses to the community, not only the risk of flight but the dangerousness represented by his past of violence”, explained Mme Opper asking for a $ 5 million bond.
His motivations are unknown but the authorities had ruled out a terrorist motive on Monday.
Darrell Brooks Jr has a heavy judicial past. He has been involved in a dozen cases since 2000 in three US states, according to the prosecution.
In 2020, he was notably indicted for endangering others after shooting his nephew during an altercation.
A few days before the tragedy, he had been released on bail after being prosecuted for domestic violence by paying 1000 dollars.