FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The man who killed one and injured two before the scheduled start of Saturday’s Stonewall Pride Parade in Fort Lauderdale and Wilton Manors was identified Monday as Fred Johnson, 77, of Oakland Park.
Fort Lauderdale Police also identified the man who was killed, James Fahy, 75, of Fort Lauderdale. Injured in the accident were Gary Keating, 69, founding director of the Fort Lauderdale Gay Men’s Chorus, and Jerry Vroegh, 67, of Fort Lauderdale.
All four were part of the chorus.
In a statement released by the chorus, Johnson apologized for losing control of his white pickup, which led to the death and injuries followed by the parade’s cancellation.
“This was a horrible accident and I offer my sincere regrets to all those who were impacted by this tragic event,” Johnson said. “I love my Chorus family and the community and would never do anything to intentionally harm anyone. Please know that I hold my fellow Chorus member, Jim Fahy, in my heart forever and offer my condolences to his friends and family.”
The surviving victims are no longer being treated at the hospital. Keating was released on Saturday, while Vroegh was sent home Monday.
Chorus President Justin Knight said Fahy’s loss had a profound effect on the community. “He was a longtime, valued member of our Chorus family and he will be deeply missed,” Knight said. “We wish a speedy recovery for Chorus member Jerry Vroegh who was injured at the accident. We thank everyone for their concern, compassion and support.”
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