An 11-year-old girl was seriously injured this morning in Port St. Lucie after a car struck her while she was trying to reach her bus stop, the Port St. Lucie Police Department (PSLPD) reported. The incident occurred at approximately 8:50 a.m. at the intersection of SW Gemini Lane and SW Thornhill Drive, CBS12 noted.
According to the police, the girl was waiting to cross the street when after one vehicle passed, she tried crossing and was unexpectedly hit by a white Honda Civic driving eastbound, a detail she did not anticipate. The driver of the Civic offered immediate assistance and is cooperating with the authorities, who mentioned that the driver showed no signs of impairment. Found unconscious though breathing, the child was airlifted to St. Mary’s Medical Center in West Palm Beach, with serious injuries yet to be assessed in full, as described in a statement obtained by WPBF.
PSLPD’s Public Information Officer Brittany Holly emphasized the need for vigilance during this back-to-school season. "We want to urge the community, students, and parents to be vigilant. Be aware of vehicles and students headed to those bus stops," Holly told CBS12. She additionally urged drivers and pedestrians to be cautious, respect traffic signals, and for parents to ensure they accompany their children to bus stops.
Although the intersection is not designated as a frequent site for pedestrian accidents, the community has been advised to exercise extra precaution, especially now that the school year is underway. Meanwhile, for pedestrians, especially small children, Holly emphasized the importance of using crosswalks. Speaking to CBS12, she delivered a message: "Please obey all traffic signals and signs, slow down, and have patience. We want to make sure our citizens and children stay safe," Holly said.
