Harbor Island Playground Reopens After Car Smashed Through Fence

See Update: Unlicensed Teen Driver Arrested For Crashing Into Playground: VOMPD

VILLAGE OF MAMARONECK, NY — An "unfortunate incident" at Harbor Island Park left a popular recreation area closed and parents glad that the trouble happened when the playground was not crowded with children.

"Late last night a car drove into the playground in Harbor Island Park," Village of Mamaroneck Mayor Tom Murphy said in a statement released early Sunday morning. "I don't have the details on how this occurred, the police are still investigating."

Murphy wrote that the playground sustained damage and would be closed until staff could assess the damage and make repairs.

"The playground will reopen only after staff is certain that the playground is totally safe for our kids," Murphy wrote. "I know staff will do all that they can to ensure this happens as quickly as possible."

The playground was reopened by Sunday afternoon. Fortunately, the visible damage to the playground was limited to the split rail fence, a smashed bench and a destroyed picnic table.

This morning, a handful of parents with kids hadn't gotten the word yet about the closing of the playground and were inspecting the damage from the other side of the temporary safety fencing and sign reading "Playground Temporarily Closed." Those who arrived with strollers, snacks and sunscreen expressed disappointment that a favorite weekend activity was off limits, but agreed they were more concerned about the potential that someone could have been seriously hurt.

Just steps away from the playground, the Mamaroneck Fireman's carnival, the splash park and beach were gearing up for the day — ensuring a holiday weekend trip to the park would still offer plenty of diversions for kids and grownups alike.

Shortly before 1 p.m., the Village of Mamaroneck Recreation Department announced that the playground is now open.