Hatboro police are on the hunt for the driver of a black SUV that struck a 14-year-old bicyclist at South York Road and School Road on Monday, then took off. Surveillance footage shows the vehicle pause at the scene for a moment before taking off north on South York Road, leaving the teen with scrapes and bruises.
The boy, 14-year-old Jaden Brill, told 6ABC he was "in shock" after the crash. He said he had been riding his bike on the sidewalk along South York Road and entered a crosswalk when the SUV hit him. Investigators have said the driver had a green light at the time, and a preliminary investigation indicates Brill did not have the right of way. Detectives added that the driver is expected to face criminal charges for leaving the scene.
The vehicle is described as a black Toyota SUV, possibly a Highlander or RAV4, with a partial license plate that includes the letters "MTX," according to CBS Philadelphia. Surveillance video reviewed by investigators shows a woman stepping out of the SUV for a few seconds, then getting back in and driving away. Police say the vehicle continued north on South York Road after that brief stop.
Investigators are asking anyone who recognizes the SUV or knows who was behind the wheel to contact the Hatboro Police Department at 215-675-2832. Tips can also be sent through the department's CrimeWatch portal, as reported by HorshamNow.
What the law says
Pennsylvania law requires drivers involved in crashes that cause injury to stop, share their information and offer reasonable help. Leaving the scene of an injury crash can bring misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on how serious the injuries are. The state courts have emphasized how strictly Pennsylvania applies its hit-and-run statute, including Section 3742 in injury cases, according to a Pennsylvania Supreme Court discussion cited by Justia.
Family reaction
Jaden's father, Jeff Brill, told 6ABC he wants the driver to face what happened, saying, "I feel like she needs to turn herself." The family said they are grateful Jaden's injuries were not more serious and are urging anyone who knows anything about the SUV or its driver to contact police.
Hatboro police say the surveillance clip of the black Toyota SUV is a crucial lead and are urging residents and businesses along South York Road to check their cameras for footage of a vehicle with a plate containing the letters "MTX." Anyone with information is asked to call 215-675-2832 or submit a tip through CrimeWatch, according to HorshamNow.
