Medical condition explored as cause of truck-church building collision

Photos by Mark Williams, Royal Examiner.

A medical situation is being explored as the cause of the January 9 pickup truck crash into the First Assembly of God building on North Shenandoah Avenue. First responders indicated the driver of the pickup, Francesco “Frank” Amari, 48, is believed to have passed out at the wheel while southbound on North Shenandoah Avenue.

Front Royal Police indicated alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in the incident. As of Tuesday, January 14, Amari’s pickup truck remained embedded in the First Assembly of God building due to structural damage concerns.

The initial investigation indicated Amari’s vehicle crossed the center line, went over the curb first taking out a mailbox and street sign, then over another curb at 12th Street before crashing though bushes into the church parking lot and finally into the church facility near a basement kitchen.

Warren County Fire Chief Richard Mabie said he was first on the scene and found Amari “on the ground with obvious injuries”. Mabie said the driver was treated by medics from Station 1 and transported to Winchester Medical Center by ambulance.

Facebook posts indicate Amari is an owner of Anthony’s Pizza in Front Royal. A January 10 post on the “Anthony’s Pizza X” Facebook page informed visitors of the accident: “For those of you who may not know, Frank got into a car accident yesterday morning. It resulted in a broken leg and shattered wrist. He went into surgery for his leg and wrist this morning. We ask for your thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery on this long journey. Thank you to everyone who has reached out; we have felt the love and support from all across the community! We will try to keep everyone updated as time goes by.”

The post was followed by a stream of well wishes from friends, the Front Royal business community and Anthony’s customer base.

Royal Examiner adds its best wishes for Amari’s recovery and for successful repairs to the First Assembly of God building.