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Minivan rams into pedestrians in Japan, 13 hurt

Officials say a minivan has run through a crowded intersection and struck pedestrians in the western Japanese city of Kyoto. Thirteen people were injured, some critically, including the vehicle's driver and the only passenger.

Rescue officials say the minivan entered a main intersection in Gion, Kyoto's main geisha district, after ignoring a traffic light, knocking over pedestrians and smashing into an electric pole before stopping. The area was packed with tourists and cherry blossom viewers.

Eight of the 11 injured pedestrians were in critical condition. Six people had cardiac arrests, including the 29-year-old driver and a passenger who had to be pulled out of the wrecked minivan.

TV footage showed pools of blood and belongings scattered on the ground as paramedics treated those less seriously injured.

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