Teen Motorist Destroys Falls Church Playground

City of Falls Church police are investigating how an underage driver managed to crash through a gate and into a playground in July.

Around 8:20 p.m. July 31, police said the driver slammed into the gate surrounding Lincoln Park (598 Lincoln Ave.). The driver alleged he lost control of the vehicle, hit the gas pedal instead of the brake and drove into the fence before plowing through the playground.

Susan Finarelli, spokeswoman for the city, said the city will replace the damaged playground equipment. She said they are in the process of getting quotes and as soon as they’re done with that, they can develop a timeline for replacing the equipment.

Finarelli said the teen was charged with improper control and released to his family. A court case is pending.