SUNNY ISLES BEACH, FLA. (WSVN) - A young boy is fighting for his life after he was struck while crossing the street in Sunny Isles Beach.
The 11-year-old was hit by a car while walking across the pedestrian crosswalk at 163rd Street and Collins Avenue, just before 7 p.m., Wednesday.
“This was a tremendous tragedy, and we all are heartbroken about this,” Sunny Isles Beach Police Chief Dwight Snyder said.
The young victim was airlifted to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital in Hollywood in critical condition. The driver stayed on the scene.
“This happened next to a park,” Sunny Isles Beach Vice Mayor Larisa Svechin said. “This is where kids cross the street. This is happening more and more often.”
City leaders said the incident is a reminder for parents to speak to their children.
“I hope that, tonight, every single parent speaks to their child and reminds them how important it is to, first of all, wear a helmet, look both ways,” Svechin said.
Community leaders gathered Thursday night for a virtual vigil and prayer circle to offer support to the child’s family as he fights for his life.
“In a time where life presents trial and tribulations, we also look to the Torah,” Rabbi Alexander Kaller, of Chabad Russian Center of South Florida, said. “We may not have all the answers, but we do look to the Torah for guidance.”
Police have not yet said who had the right of way. No citations have been issued, and Miami-Dade Police said the driver is cooperating with their investigation.
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