DAVIE, FLA. (WSVN) - Two teenage girls are fighting for their lives one day after, officials said, they were struck by a car while crossing the street near a carnival being held in Davie.
Fifteen-year-old Alicia Cerrato and 14-year-old Andrea De Las Salas remained in the intensive care unit at Broward Health Medical Center.
According to Davie Police, the teens were heading to the St. Bonaventure Family Festival, along Southwest 136th Avenue, when they were hit by a dark gray Dodge Neon, Friday, at around 5 p.m.
“These girls were running from east to west towards the carnival, and it’s possible they ran out in front of this vehicle,” said Davie Police Sgt. Mark Leone.
Cameras captured police and rescue crews at the scene of the crash near St. Bonaventure Catholic Church and Western High School. The 2004 Neon, seen with the front windshield smashed in, was parked on the road nearby.
Paramedics rushed the victims to BHMC as trauma alerts.
Police said the driver of the Neon stayed at the scene and is cooperating with authorities.
The accident sent shock waves throughout the community. “I can’t even imagine what those parents are going through,” said concerned parent Jacquelyn Kippenbrock.
“I thought they were just here for the carnival, but now I’m quite confused, ’cause I had no idea about this tragic event,” said one girl.
Police shut down the street in front of the carnival for hours while police conducted their investigation.
Police identified the driver as 18-year-old Daniel Corugedo, a Davie resident.
Investigators said the driver was not at fault and will not face any charges. They believe the teens tried to cross the street outside the designated crosswalk.
“We do not believe speed is a factor, nor is alcohol,” said Leone.
Cerrato’s father said the 15-year-old is a sophomore at Western High School and De Las Salas is her friend.
Parents who took their children to the carnival counted their blessings. “I can’t even imagine. That happening would be the biggest nightmare of my life,” said Marcia Merino.
“It hits you hard,” said one concerned parent. “It’s easy to empathize. You don’t want to go through that yourself.”
Back at the hospital, the teens’ families told 7News they are asking for prayers, as they remain hopeful the girls with pull through.
“To think that it could’ve been one of my children, it breaks my heart for those parents,” said Kippenbrock.
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