A quiet evening in Bournemouth turned to tragedy when a 12-year-old boy was left fighting for his life following a devastating hit-and-run incident. The young victim was struck by a vehicle on Ashley Road around 8:15 PM on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Dorset Police have confirmed that a 27-year-old local man has been arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident. The suspect remains in police custody as detectives continue their urgent investigation into the circumstances that left a child critically injured.
Community in Shock After Brazen Incident
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos and concern as emergency services rushed to the popular residential area. Paramedics provided immediate critical care at the scene before transporting the boy to a major trauma centre where he remains in a life-threatening condition.
"The driver just sped off without even slowing down," one shaken local resident told reporters. "It's every parent's worst nightmare seeing a child lying in the road like that. We're all praying for his recovery."
Police Appeal for Witnesses
Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins of Dorset Police emphasised the seriousness of the investigation: "This was a horrific incident that has left a young boy with potentially life-changing injuries. We're pursuing multiple lines of enquiry and would urge anyone with information, particularly dashcam footage, to come forward immediately."
Police have cordoned off a significant section of Ashley Road as forensic teams comb the area for evidence. The road closure is expected to remain in place throughout Wednesday as investigators piece together the sequence of events that led to this heartbreaking incident.
A Long Road to Recovery
Medical experts have indicated that the boy faces an uncertain prognosis and a lengthy recovery process. The trauma team at the hospital is providing round-the-clock care while family members maintain a vigil at his bedside.
Local councillor Amanda Pearson expressed the community's solidarity: "Our hearts go out to the family during this terrifying time. Bournemouth is a close-knit community, and we'll do everything we can to support them through this ordeal."
As the investigation continues, residents have begun leaving flowers and messages of support near the scene, creating a makeshift memorial for the young victim whose life hangs in the balance.
