Butler mother says son, 4, injured in hit-and-run crash while trick-or-treating
A Butler mother is asking for the public’s help after her 4-year-old son was injured in hit-and-run crash during Tuesday’s trick-or-treating.
Tiffany Hawk, of Butler, said Wednesday, Nov. 1, that her son Andrew, 4, was wearing a fluffy dinosaur costume when he was struck by a dark green SUV on Center Avenue.
Andrew suffered injuries to his face, but the driver did not stop.
“From my angle, it looked like he could have gotten completely run over,” Hawk said. “I was terrified.”
According to Butler Bureau of Police Chief Robert O’Neill, officers responded at 6:26 p.m. Tuesday to the crash within the 600 block of Center Avenue.
He said that they were searching for the vehicle, a dark green GMC or Chevrolet SUV, and its driver on Wednesday.
Investigators said it’s possible the driver was unaware the child had been struck.
According to Hawk, she and her children were leaving South Street when she noticed someone handing out candy across Center Avenue. She said she crossed the street with Andrew and one of her daughters.
“(Andrew) wanted to go back to his dad (across the street), but his dad said he would have to wait. I turned and saw the vehicle lights coming at him. I got his attention by calling his name. That’s why he barely got grazed in his face, because he turned around,” she said. “The car did not stop.”
Hawk said Andrew fell into the street after being hit, and she scooped him up and got him on the sidewalk. He had bruises on the left side of his face.
“He was crying; his sister was screaming,” she said.
She added that what Andrew was wearing could have contributed to his injuries being minor.
“He was wearing a big, puffy coat and a fluffy dinosaur costume,” she said. “Fortunately, I think that caught most of the impact.”
Andrew was taken to Butler Memorial Hospital by ambulance from the scene. Hawk said Wednesday he is recovering well.
“He’s doing good. He’s been resuming his normal, everyday activities,” she said.
She said in a Facebook post that she hopes the driver will come forward.
“I understand accidents happen, but take accountability for your actions,” Hawk wrote. “My 4-year-old son almost died last night in front of his parents and siblings. If that doesn’t weigh on you, then you’re the one who deserves pity.”
City police requested any witnesses to the crash contact the Butler County 911 center or contact Lt. Rensel with information at 724-287-7743, ext. 213.
