An 11-year-old child was struck while crossing the street at the intersection of Franklin Street and Vincent Road on Tuesday, October 17, 2023. The accident occurred at 7:15 a.m.
The child was attempting to cross the road to get onto her school bus when she was hit by a black Honda Civic traveling eastbound on Franklin Street. The bus had engaged its lights and stop sign.
The driver of the Honda Civic has been identified as Gavin Watson, a Slippery Rock University student. After the accident, Watson immediately stopped his car and stood with the victim and those helping.
Due to weather conditions, transportation by air to the hospital was not possible. The child was transported to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh by the Slippery Rock Volunteer Fire and Rescue with suspected serious injuries.
According to Slippery Rock Borough Police Chief Terry Fedokovitz, Watson will be charged with the following: overtaking a school bus, driving at a safe speed and careless driving.
In an email to The Rocket, Chief Fedokovitz shared that the victim has returned home and is recovering with minor injuries.
The Rocket reached out to Watson but did not receive a response.
