A 12-year-old boy is in the intensive care unit at a local hospital after getting hit by a minivan Tuesday morning in Gwinnett County, police said.
The child was rushed to a hospital about 8 a.m. with serious injuries. He is expected to survive, police spokeswoman Cpl. Michele Phihera told AJC.com.
Gwinnett County police are investigating the accident, which occurred as the child was walking in a crosswalk outside The Pointe at Norcross apartments on Park Colony Drive. The driver of the Kia minivan remained at the scene and spoke with investigators, police said.
The child’s family told Channel 2 Action News he doesn’t remember what happened.
All southbound lanes of South Norcross Tucker Road were shut down for nearly three hours. They reopened just before 11 a.m.
Pihera said it appears the crosswalk lights were working properly at the time of the accident.
“He pushed the button and proceeded to walk across the street,” she said. “As he was on the other side of the roadway, about to cross again, he was struck by a passing motorist. Right now we don’t know why that other motorist didn’t stop for the flashing crosswalk.”
While the collision remains under investigation, it appears the minivan was traveling at a low speed. There was minimal damage to the front of the vehicle.
Police are urging drivers to pay attention to crosswalks in areas with lots of foot traffic, especially during this time of year when children are back in school.
“This young boy had a book bag with him,” police said. “I don’t know what his final destination was, but it’s important that all drivers be aware of their surroundings.”
Investigators are working to collect surveillance footage from the area and are looking to speak with witnesses. Anyone with information should contact Gwinnett County police.
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