Child in critical condition after being hit by car in Southeast Fresno
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A warning to drivers as well as pedestrians after two cars struck children on the same stretch of Tulare Street in Southeast Fresno. One of the victims continues to fight for her life at the hospital.
A lone white car remained on a street of scattered debris. While officers reconstructed how its driver hit a 10-year-old, neighbors protectively looked over their own children.
"To kind of witness it-- this is not something you would want to happen to anybody, especially a little girl," said Josue Zamora, neighbor.
Officers said a father and his daughter were preparing to walk home from a local convenience store when the child ran into traffic. Several cars managed to avoid hitting her but she never made it to the other side.
"The kids aren't paying attention, they want to go to the store, or run into in the street," said Cindy Jackson, Fresno driver.
Just one block away, a few hours earlier-- another collision. Officers said this time a car failed to see someone pushing a two-year-old in a stroller. And the statistics continue to climb.
"Unfortunately, we've been a little busy-- especially here today and in general in the city because of the rise of car vs. pedestrians," said Captain Anthony Martinez, Fresno PD.
There have been more than a dozen fatalities involving pedestrians in Fresno this year. Officers said they find drivers and pedestrians equally at fault.
"I've seen a lot of people at night on the streets, no reflective gear, sometimes I got to slam on my brakes," said Jackson.
So far this year, the department has conducted 13 pedestrian safety operations. Last Wednesday alone, officers issued 67 citations for jaywalking-- but people keep taking chances.
"It's really sad. Parents need to watch their kids, and kids-- if they aren't with their parents-- you have to look both ways," said Jackson.
The last we heard the 10-year-old girl was in critical condition and she underwent surgery late Thursday afternoon.
