Richard “Richie” Martinez, 3, is in critical condition after a hit-and-run driver struck and critically injured the toddler as he was trick-or-treating in San Bernardino on Halloween night. According to a KTLA news report, the major injury crash occurred the night of Oct. 31 near the intersection of 35th Street and North Sierra Way. Officers arrived to find an injured 3-year-old boy who had been struck by a vehicle that fled the area. Richard was transported to an area hospital in critical but stable condition.
Ongoing Investigation
The driver sped away in what was described as a silver Toyota Camry without identifying themselves or helping the child. Officials say the boy, dressed as Batman, had stepped off the sidewalk while trick-or-treating with his mother and two brothers when he was struck. His mother provided an update on Facebook saying Richard has been taken off sedation and breathing tubes and is breathing on his own. But, he remains hospitalized. Anyone with information about this hit-and-run crash is asked to contact the San Bernardino Police Department.
Our thoughts and prayers are with little Richie Martinez who has been seriously injured in this hit-and-run crash, all while trying to be a child and go trick-or-treating on Halloween night. We wish him the very best for a quick and complete recovery.
Leaving the Scene of a Crash
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the vehicle struck the little boy and left the scene without stopping to offer assistance or identified themself. Under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a), motorists are required to stop right away and remain at the scene until authorities arrive. They are also required to exchange pertinent information including identification, address, driver’s license, auto insurance details, etc. In addition, motorists are also required to help the injured at the scene. This could be something as simple as calling 911 or getting injured victims prompt medical help.
In such cases, victims and their families struggle not just emotionally, but also financially because they are left with mounting medical expenses and other financial burdens. Victims of hit-and-run crashes would be well advised to contact an experienced San Bernardino car accident lawyer who will stay abreast of the official information and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/local-news/toddler-fights-for-life-after-being-struck-by-hit-and-run-driver-while-trick-or-treating-in-san-bernardino/