4 days ago
Sanford Police search for hit-and-run driver that injured a 3-year-old girl
The Brief
A three-year-old girl was hit by a car on Persimmon Avenue in Sanford, and the driver fled the scene.
The child is recovering in the ICU at Arnold Palmer Hospital, and her family is seeking witnesses to help identify the driver.
Sanford Police are investigating the incident, but no suspects have been identified yet.
What we know
ORLANDO, Fla. - Last Thursday night, a driver hit a three-year-old child with a car on Persimmon Avenue in Sanford and then fled the scene.
The child is currently in the ICU at Arnold Palmer Hospital, showing signs of recovery such as opening her eyes and moving her limbs.
Her 13-year-old brother was present during the incident and provided comfort until emergency services arrived.
What we don't know
Sanford Police have not released information about the identity of the driver or any potential suspects.
Details about the circumstances leading to the incident remain unclear.
The backstory
The incident has left the family traumatized, with the grandmother expressing her distress and concern for her granddaughter's fight for life.
What they're saying
Tonja Debose, the victim's grandmother, is pleading for witnesses to come forward and help identify the driver responsible for her granddaughter's injuries.
"I'm so traumatized. I don't I don't know what to say. I'm just I try to stay calm because again, I have panic attacks. But for this three year old, I just don't know. She's fighting for her life."
She spoke from her home in Sanford.
What's next
Sanford Police continue to investigate the case, and the family hopes for leads that will help track down the driver.
The community is encouraged to provide any information that could assist in the investigation.
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The Source
The information in this article comes from reporting and research done by FOX 35 reporter Matt Trezza and the Sanford Police Department.
