In a devastating incident outside the Kodak Center in Rochester, New York, on New Year’s Day, a fiery crash has claimed the lives of three individuals, with authorities providing updates on the tragic event.
The latest victim, Dawn Revette, 54, succumbed to injuries sustained when she was struck by a vehicle in the crosswalk outside the concert venue.
Tragic Collision Involving Rented SUV, Ride-Sharing Car, and Suspect
The incident also involved a rented Ford Expedition, a ride-sharing car, and the suspect, 35-year-old Michael Avery, who died in the collision.
According to police reports, the fatal crash occurred as concertgoers were leaving the venue. The rented Ford Expedition, driven by Avery, collided with a ride-sharing car, leading to a fiery explosion that claimed two lives inside the vehicle.
Avery’s vehicle was reportedly speeding in the direction of pedestrians in the crosswalk, causing multiple injuries to both pedestrians and first responders.
Rochester Police Chief David Smith revealed that the suspect appeared to intentionally drive towards the pedestrian crossing and accelerated as he approached it.
Authorities discovered multiple canisters filled with gasoline in Avery’s vehicle, along with a Glock-style replica handgun and several lighters.
Despite ongoing investigations, law enforcement has been unable to identify a clear motive for the attack, and there are no apparent links to political, racial, or extremist ideologies associated with Avery.
Smith outlined Avery’s activities leading up to the tragic incident, noting that the suspect had checked into a Rochester hotel on December 27. In the following days, Avery purchased gas cans and filled them in the region.
On the day of the incident, Avery spent several hours in the area surrounding the Kodak Theater, potentially scouting the location.
He had even purchased a ticket for the concert that evening but did not use it, choosing instead to spend time around the theater and nearby parking lots before carrying out the attack.
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Rochester Mayor Urges Community Resilience in the Face of Tragedy
The two victims inside the ride-sharing car were identified as Justina Hughes, 28, of Geneva, and Joshua Orr, 29, of Webster. Multiple pedestrians and first responders sustained injuries, with one victim still receiving inpatient treatment for non-life-threatening injuries.
Authorities urged anyone present outside the venue on the night of the concert to come forward with information that may assist in the ongoing investigation.
As the community grapples with the tragedy, Rochester Mayor Malik Evans emphasized the importance of keeping the memories of the victims—Dawn Revette, Justina Hughes, and Joshua Orr—alive despite the uncertainty surrounding the motives behind the horrific act.
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