A white van was driven into a group of Gulf Shores High School band members as they awaited the start of the annual Mardi Gras parade in Gulf Shores. Eleven students were transported to three area hospitals. Three of those are reportedly in critical condition.

Eyewitnesses say an older man was behind the wheel of the van, which was also lined up as part of the parade. The incident occurred near the intersection of Highway 59 and Clubhouse Drive.

Spectators rushed in to help pull out band members who were underneath the van. It is unknown at this time if the driver had suffered a medical emergency. There has been no report of his condition.

Officials cancelled the parade, and police are currently at the scene investigating the circumstances which led to the accident.