1 killed, 1 seriously injured after 76-year-old driver crashes into SF Chinatown restaurant: SFPD

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- A 76-year-old driver crashed into a restaurant in San Francisco's Chinatown Friday morning, killing one person and injuring another, according to the San Francisco Police Department.

The crash happened around 7:45 a.m. on Jackson Street between Grant and Kearny streets, before many nearby businesses had opened for the day.

Police said the driver was attempting to park when he lost control, striking two pedestrians on the sidewalk before slamming into the building.

Both victims were taken to a hospital. One later died from their injuries. The second victim is expected to survive.

The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Police say drugs and alcohol do not appear to be factors.

Witnesses described a chaotic and frightening scene.

"I was actually asleep and heard a loud crash. It felt like an earthquake. The building shook," said neighbor Brandon Moreno, who lives next door.

Property manager Kim Segato said it appeared the driver may have accidentally hit the accelerator instead of the brake.

Debris was scattered across the street, and the front of the restaurant, identified as New Lun Ting Cafe, was heavily damaged. Officials have since deemed the building unsafe, forcing the business to temporarily close.

MORE: SF driver who killed family of 4 will be forced to explain what happened in crash in civil cases

Residents told ABC7 Eyewitness News that construction or maintenance workers had been working at the building.

Witnesses said at least three workers were present and loading a van when the crash happened. One person was able to move out of the way in time and was not injured.

Neighbors expressed shock over the incident and sympathy for those involved.

"I have compassion for the family who lost someone, and for the driver as well. I'm sure it wasn't intentional," Moreno said.

Walk San Francisco, an advocacy group for pedestrian safety, said this is the sixth pedestrian killed in just six weeks.

"Every pedestrian death is a tragedy. Our thoughts are with the victims' family and loved ones," said Jodie Medeiros, executive director for Walk San Francisco.

The Chinese Chamber of Commerce is planning a community meeting following this tragedy on Monday at Victory Hall.

Jackson Street has since reopened as the investigation continues.