FHP seeks driver who struck child and fled the scene

[Photo courtesy FHP]

The Florida Highway Patrol is seeking the public’s help in locating the driver who struck and seriously injured a 12-year-old female middle school student Wednesday afternoon in Belleview.

According to an FHP press release, the incident occurred around 4:12 p.m. on Southeast 36th Avenue (County Road 467) near Southeast 107th Place.

The press release states that the student, who attends Belleview Middle School according to a Marion County Public Schools official, was walking south on the east shoulder of Southeast 36th Avenue (CR 467) when, for “unknown reasons,” a pickup truck struck the child, causing injuries described as “serious” and “non-life threatening.”

After striking the student, the pickup, described by witnesses as a white, four-door model that was towing a utility trailer, drove north on CR 467.

Anyone with information about the vehicle can call the FHP Regional Communications Center at (904) 359-6572.