A 9-year-old boy was struck by a vehicle Saturday afternoon on the 800 block of 56th Street in West Philadelphia and was taken to the Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, according to police. Officials say the child suffered injuries but is in stable condition. The driver took off, and investigators are now urging anyone who saw what happened to step up and speak with detectives.
Police Describe Vehicle And Suspect
Philadelphia police say the vehicle that hit the boy was a 2010-2013 Honda Crosstour, mostly burgundy but with a black passenger-side fender, a green passenger-side front door, a white passenger-side rear door, and a bicycle rack on the roof, according to FOX 29 Philadelphia. The driver was described as a man about 25 to 35 years old with short hair and a beard. Police say the crash happened around 12:22 p.m. on Saturday.
Police Ask For Tips
Per Philadelphia Police, anyone with information is asked to contact the Crash Investigation Division at 215-685-3180 or 215-685-3181, or submit an anonymous tip to 215-686-TIPS (8477). Officials are reminding residents not to confront or follow any suspected driver and to call 911 for emergencies.
Another Crash Near 56th Street
This latest incident adds to a troubling run of serious crashes near 56th Street. In December, a bicyclist was killed at North 56th and Lancaster Avenue, a case covered by a fatal hit-and-run near 56th and Lancaster and local television outlets. 6abc and other reports documented community calls for safer streets and an ongoing Crash Investigation Division probe.
Legal note
Pennsylvania law requires drivers involved in crashes that cause injury or death to stop, help anyone who is hurt, and provide identifying information. Those duties are spelled out in 75 Pa.C.S. 77 3742 and 3744, which set criminal penalties for leaving the scene. The state vehicle code explains the duties and penalties.
FOX 29 Philadelphia reported the initial details provided by police, and investigators say they will release updates as the probe continues. Anyone with video or new information is asked to contact authorities.
