Child, 12, struck by hit-and-run driver on west side

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Police are investigating after a child was struck by a hit-and-run driver on the city’s west side.

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department was called to 34th Street and High School Road around 7 a.m.

Police say the driver fled the scene. A description of the suspect’s vehicle has not yet been provided.

The child has been taken to Riley Hospital for Children. IMPD describes the child’s condition as stable.

Indianapolis Public Schools Board of School Commissioners President Evan Hawkins says kids should not be worried about getting hit by a car, so the board is taking steps to bring change.

“One time is too many and this is horrible, and so absolutely I think further discussion is going to have to happen. Again, we have to make sure that we drive home the message that drivers have to slow down and be conscious of the fact that this is a school zone and that young people are walking to school,” he said.

The district has released this statement:

“We are aware of an incident this morning in which a 12-year-old female student at Northwest Middle School was struck by a vehicle. The student has been transported to a local hospital and her parents have been notified.

We will continue to monitor the student’s progress and hope that police will find the person responsible.

Speeding and distracted driving in school zones are a problem throughout our city. It’s a problem that needs to be addressed, quickly.

At IPS student safety is always a top priority, and we will continue to be vigilant in these situations.”

Indianapolis Public Schools

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers of Central Indiana at 317-262-8477.