Police: Child hit by vehicle in Butler fractures skull
A 6-year-old boy with disabilities fractured his skull and sustained multiple broken bones when he was struck by a vehicle Wednesday, March 12, near the intersection of West New Castle Street and Sixth Avenue in Butler, police said.
The boy, who was flown to UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, is doing well, according an update provided Thursday by city police.
“He did sustain very serious injuries including a fractured skull and multiple broken bones,” Chief Bob O’Neill said. “However, his prognosis is good.”
The driver stayed on the scene and was “visibly shaken” and “fully cooperative,” according to the release. Police said the driver appeared to be driving normally and will not be charged.
“While the investigation is still ongoing, it appears as if the child darted out in front of the vehicle, leaving no time for the operator to stop,” O’Neill said.
Police said the child has “significant disabilities” known to the department, and his mother was at the scene of the crash.
West New Castle Street was closed in both directions from Sixth Avenue to Seventh Avenue for about three hours, according to the release.
State police were on the scene to provide assistance by use of their accident reconstructionist. Butler city fire department and Butler Ambulance Service also responded.
This article was updated March 13 to reflect a change to the location.
