NEW PORT RICHEY, FL – An 11-year-old girl from Florida was struck by a car while cycling to her school, according to New Port Richey police. The driver of the vehicle has been arrested for allegedly leaving the accident scene after crashing into the young girl.
Jennifer Reznick, the girl’s mother, claims she has spent years urging the Pasco County School District to provide bus service for her daughter, Cherie. She expressed that one of her fears tragically came true last week when Cherie was knocked down by a car.
The driver reportedly ran away from the scene, leaving the young girl lying shocked and stunned in the street. The New Port Richey police managed to apprehend the 77-year-old driver thanks to an anonymous tip. Authorities found damage on his car consistent with the hit-and-run, and he confessed to his involvement in the incident.
Pasco County rules state that a school bus can be used only by children living more than two miles from their school. The Reznick residence falls one-tenth of a mile short of this requirement. Jennifer Reznick’s requests for an exception in light of the recent accident have been unsuccessful. The school’s superintendent, Kurt Browning, cited a lack of adequate bus drivers to justify this decision.
On the morning of the accident, Cherie was reportedly wearing her helmet, had her bike’s lights on, and had stopped when necessary. Jennifer Reznick confirmed that although Cherie was bruised, she is expected to recover fully.