A tragic incident unfolded on the evening of November 25th near Millersville, Maryland, when a 7-year-old boy lost his life during what police are describing as a hit-and-run accident on Interstate 97. The boy was reportedly riding as a passenger in the back seat of a 2011 Mazda 3, driven by his grandmother.
According to preliminary details from the Maryland State Police, the child opened the rear window of the moving vehicle and fell out onto the roadway. This frightening fall occurred just before 7:30 p.m., typically when traffic flows heavily due to the end of the weekend.
Witnesses indicated the boy landed directly on the highway, where he was then struck by another vehicle. That vehicle, identified as possibly being a 2016 to 2019 Honda Civic, did not stop after the collision but continued along the roadway.
Emergency medical personnel arrived on the scene shortly after the incident but tragically pronounced the boy dead at the spot. Thankfully, the grandmother, who was driving the Mazda, emerged from the situation uninjured. Still, the emotional toll of such a grievous event on her and the community has been significant.
Authorities have launched a full-scale investigation, headed by the Maryland State Police Crash Team, which is working alongside troopers from the Glen Burnie Barrack. They are particularly focused on locating the Honda Civic involved, which investigators believe sustained visible damage, especially to the front left wheel well. Witnesses and anyone with information are actively being sought by police, with Senior Trooper Gregory Bunger making appeals for assistance at the Glen Burnie Barrack.
"It's heartbreaking to witness such loss, especially of someone so young, and we are urging anyone who might know something to come forward," Bunger stated during a press conference. He highlighted the importance of community vigilance and support during the investigation.
Local residents have expressed their shock and grief over the incident. Many are actively discussing measures to improve safety along the roadway, where high-speed vehicle traffic persists near residential areas. The community has seen similar incidents, raising concerns about the continual danger posed by cars traveling at high speeds through populated regions.
Following the accident, some neighbors expressed their sorrow for the affected family. A local resident remarked, "This is the kind of thing you hear of happening, but when it hits home, it is just devastating. We all should look out for each other, especially our children.”
Authorities are persistent in their efforts to locate the Honda Civic and the driver who fled the scene. Anyone with insights or who might have witnessed anything relevant to the incident is encouraged to contact the Maryland State Police at the provided phone number or email.
Such incidents serve as important reminders of roadway safety, particularly involving young children. The police encourage parents to take extra precautions when traveling, ensuring windows are secure and children are properly restrained at all times.
The investigation continues, and the community’s hope rests on finding justice for the little boy and ensuring the safety of all children traveling within the state.