Infant Dies in Philadelphia Ambulance Crash; Driver Suspected of DUI

Philadelphia, PA – A 2-month-old infant, identified as Marian Harris, died and her 33-year-old mother was critically injured after a private ambulance crashed in the Frankford section of Philadelphia early Sunday morning, March 15, 2026. The ambulance driver, the infant’s 51-year-old grandfather and a longtime MedStar employee, is suspected of driving under the influence and faces potential charges.

Details of the Crash

The incident occurred around 5:15 a.m. At the intersection of Torresdale and Harbison Avenues. According to police, the family had called 911 for an unresponsive infant but left their home on Ditman Street before first responders arrived. They were en route to the hospital in a MedStar ambulance when the crash took place.

Surveillance video shows the ambulance entering the intersection, striking a Honda Accord, hitting a pole, and overturning. The vehicle struck by the ambulance then collided with a building. Both the mother and infant were ejected from the ambulance due to the force of the impact. 6abc

Investigation and Charges

Police suspect the driver was operating the ambulance under the influence at a high rate of speed, without activating the lights or sirens, and ran a red light. The driver of the Honda Accord, a 25-year-old man, was not seriously injured. NBC Fresh York

While police initially indicated charges would be filed, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s office stated on Sunday night that no charges had been submitted for review, but an investigation is ongoing. NBC New York

Victims and Aftermath

The infant, Marian Harris, was pronounced dead at the hospital. Her mother remains in critical condition. CBS News Neighbors expressed sadness and shock upon learning the details of the tragic incident. 6abc

The driver of the ambulance was taken to the hospital. PHL17

Key Takeaways

• A 2-month-old infant died and her mother was critically injured in a Philadelphia ambulance crash.
• The ambulance driver, the infant’s grandfather, is suspected of driving under the influence.
• The crash occurred when the ambulance ran a red light without lights or sirens activated.
• An investigation is ongoing, and charges are pending.