Driver loses control, crashes into school gym in Philadelphia's Juniata section

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A driver crashed into a school gym early Friday morning in Philadelphia's Juniata section.

The crash happened at about 5:30 a.m. on the 1800 block of Torresdale Avenue.

Police said the driver of the car lost control and crashed into a building at the Mariana Bracetti Academy Charter School that houses the gym and cafeteria.

The driver, who was unresponsive when emergency crews arrived on the scene, was extricated from the car and taken to an area hospital, police said.

Fire crews have requested the Department of Licenses and Inspections to come to the scene to inspect the damage.

School administrators say classes will still be held Friday for the regularly scheduled half day and students will be released at noon.

Drop-off and pick-up will be rerouted to entrances on Hunting Park Avenue and Jasper Street until Torresdale Avenue reopens.

A witness who was pumping gas across the street said he saw the car go airborne after it lost control.

He said the car spun sideways and struck a sign, tree, fence and then the school building.