A pedestrian was rushed to the hospital with serious injuries Sunday morning after a hit-and-run crash at North Colorado Boulevard and East 35th Avenue, according to Denver police. Officers say the driver took off before they arrived, and investigators are now working to track the motorist down.
In a social media alert, the Denver Police Department reported the crash at N Colorado Blvd / E 35th Ave and confirmed the motorist left the scene. The department also reminded followers that the account is not monitored around the clock and directed tipsters to call the non-emergency line.
What police say
“The pedestrian was transported to the hospital with serious injuries,” the Denver Police Department wrote, adding that investigators are working to identify the driver involved. Officials have not released the victim’s name or provided additional details on their condition.
Legal consequences
Under Colorado law, per C.R.S. § 42-4-1601, leaving the scene of an accident that results in serious bodily injury can be charged as a class 4 felony, which can bring prison time, fines and license revocation. The statute defines “serious bodily injury” to include injuries that create a substantial risk of death or long-term impairment and spells out drivers’ duties after a crash.
Bigger picture
Pedestrian fatalities and hit-and-run crashes have risen sharply across Colorado in recent years, prompting warnings from state troopers and traffic-safety advocates. The Colorado Sun has reported on the increase in pedestrian deaths, and the Colorado State Patrol has urged drivers to slow down and stay at crash scenes.
Anyone with information about Sunday’s crash is asked to call the Denver Police non-emergency line at 720-913-2000, listed in the Denver Police Department directory, or submit an anonymous tip to Metro Denver Crime Stoppers at 720-913-STOP (7867). For emergencies, call 911.
