PINE BLUFF, AR — A community is shaken and a family is left devastated after a hit-and-run incident in Pine Bluff resulted in a young child being seriously injured. The disturbing event unfolded on Bullock Street in the 5400 block late Monday afternoon, when a child riding a scooter was struck by a vehicle whose driver fled the scene without offering aid or alerting authorities.
Emergency responders with the Pine Bluff Fire and Police Departments arrived quickly after 911 was called. The child, whose name and age have not yet been officially released, was treated at the scene before being transported to a local hospital for further care. As of the latest update, the child is reported to be in stable condition, though the extent of the injuries has not been fully disclosed.
According to witnesses in the neighborhood, the vehicle was traveling at a high rate of speed and did not slow down or stop after hitting the child. Surveillance footage from nearby homes is being reviewed by investigators in hopes of identifying the vehicle and its driver.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare,” said a neighbor who lives a few houses down from the crash site. “Kids play out here all the time. We need drivers to be more careful — and to do the right thing if something like this happens.”
The Pine Bluff Police Department has launched an active investigation into the incident. Officers are canvassing the area, speaking to witnesses, and urging anyone with information about the vehicle or the person behind the wheel to come forward. They are particularly seeking help in identifying a dark-colored sedan that was seen leaving the area around the time of the crash.
“This was a senseless act of negligence,” said a spokesperson from the department. “Leaving the scene of an accident, especially one involving a child, is not just illegal — it’s inhumane. We are committed to finding the individual responsible and bringing them to justice.”
Authorities are encouraging anyone who may have seen the incident or has surveillance footage from nearby homes or businesses to contact Pine Bluff Police at (870) 730-2090 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers.
As the investigation continues, the Pine Bluff community is rallying in support of the injured child and the family, offering prayers and well-wishes for a full recovery.
More updates will be released as information becomes available.
