Richard Rojas named as Times Square crash driver suspect

The man suspected of driving a car through Times Square has been identified as Richard Rojas (AFP/Getty)

The suspected driver who plowed through Times Square killing an 18-year-old woman and injuring 19 more has been identified as Richard Rojas. Previous reports have indicated that he was a 26-year-old who lives in the Bronx borough of New York City and that he had a history of driving under the influence of alcohol.

Mr Rojas was reportedly a veteran of the US military.

The car, a red Honda, struck pedestrians at about 43rd Street and 7th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan and came to a stop after crashing into barricades near 45th Street and Broadway. Reporters at the scene said police had indicated that the driver of the vehicle had “lost control” in Times Square before hitting people.

The NYPD had previously said that the driver of the vehicle was in custody and was being tested for alcohol.

The crash occurred on a warm and sunny afternoon in New York that brought sizeable crowds out around the city to enjoy the weather.

State and local officials were expected to visit the site of the crash.

Times Square has a heavy police force at all times of the day and much of the sidewalks have metal bollards installed near the street to stop cars from veering into pedestrian walking areas and other public zones.