Last Friday's bike ride in Novato turned into a nightmare when an 8-year-old riding a bicycle was hit by a car at Vineyard Road and Sutro Avenue, and the driver took off. Police say a bystander rushed in, helped the injured child and called 911 after the driver briefly stopped, then drove away, leaving the youngster on the pavement.
According to CBS San Francisco, the Novato Police Department received the call around 3:50 PM. The vehicle was described as a black Mercedes sedan, and the driver as an older woman. Officers told the outlet the driver acknowledged the child before continuing westbound on Vineyard Road. Investigators are now urging anyone with surveillance video or witness information to step forward.
What the police are asking for
The Novato Police Department is asking residents in the area to scour their doorbell, security and dash-cam footage for anything that might show the Mercedes or the collision. Investigators say anyone with video or witness information should call the Traffic Section at 415-897-4361 or submit a tip to 415-899-7004, according to the Novato Police Department. Non-emergency reporting options and additional contact details are also available on the department's site.
Hit-and-run trends and why footage matters
Hit-and-run injury crashes continue to be a statewide concern, and the California Office of Traffic Safety's 2023 Annual Report highlights the scope of the problem. The report stresses that enforcement, solid evidence collection and community reporting are key tools to prevent and solve these cases. Video from doorbell and business cameras has quickly become one of the fastest ways local investigators identify fleeing vehicles and narrow down potential suspects.
Potential legal consequences
Under California law, leaving the scene of an accident that causes injury can be charged under Vehicle Code section 20001, which allows felony penalties in serious cases and carries fines and potential jail time depending on the severity of injuries, according to the California Legislature. Prosecutors decide whether to file misdemeanor or felony charges after reviewing the facts and the extent of any injuries.
If you were near Vineyard Road and Sutro Avenue and saw anything, or if your home or business camera captured the black Mercedes, police are asking you to save that footage and contact investigators. Tips and non-emergency reporting options are listed on the Novato Police Department website, and the Traffic Section can be reached at 415-897-4361 for direct leads.
