SXSW car crash: Fourth death confirmed after two weeks

A fourth death has been reported after a car crashed into crowds at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas.

Austin police named De’Andre Tatum, 18, as the latest victim of the crash, which happened on March 13.

Suspected driver Rashad Charjun Owens, 21, currently faces two capital murder charges after a man and a woman were killed in the collision in Austin.

On March 17, Sandy Thuy Le, 26, was named as the third victim of the crash.

Following the incident, Jamie Ranae West, 27, was the first named victim.

Jamie Ranae West was on a moped with her husband Evan West, 29, when they were hit.

Evan West is listed as one of the people still being treated in hospital. It had been previously reported that both of the fatalities had been on the moped.

The man who died in the crash was on a bicycle, police said, although they did not release his name.

Massive Music, a company with offices in Amsterdam, New York and London, said employee Steven Craenmehr, 35, died suddenly in Austin.

Rashad Charjun Owens is also charged with 23 counts of aggravated assault with a vehicle.

Austin Police Chief Art Acevedo said an officer on a drink-driving patrol had initially tried to stop Rashad Charjun Owens, who then tried to escape.

Blood samples from the accused are currently being tested.

Local students have started fundraising initiatives to help the victims, while medical teams have also been appealing for people in the area to donate blood.

Images of ambulances and fire engines and people being treating at the scene were shared on social media.

Police confirmed the news on Twitter and also appealed for people who had been in the area at the time to come forward.

“If you witnessed the incident that took place at 9th and Red River please make sure you talk with an officer on the scene. #SXSW,” they wrote.

The collision happened outside of the Mohawk venue. According to its website, Tyler the Creator was due to perform at the venue.

SXSW festival, which ran from March 11 to March 16, is known as one of the world’s best platforms for rising talent.