by Kylee Boyter
kboyter@cherryroad.com

On Tuesday, Feb. 25, authorities responded to a reported accident involving a child and a vehicle. The call, made by a third-party witness at approximately 4:30 p.m., described a “personal injury accident where a red vehicle hit a child.”

According to the reporting party, Savannah Hansen, she observed a red car stopped in the roadway before witnessing children rushing to carry another child away from in front of the vehicle. She stated that the driver then pulled over to the side of the road before she contacted emergency dispatch.

Other witnesses confirmed that the child involved—an 8-year-old riding a bicycle—had crossed in front of the red vehicle. The child was taken to the hospital by their parents for evaluation.

Richfield City Police Chief Trent Lloyd confirmed that the driver, identified as Dale Barney, 32, of Elsinore, exchanged information with the child’s parents before both parties left the scene. Responding officers later located Barney to collect his statement. He was cited for leaving the scene of an accident involving injury.

“The juvenile involved in the accident sustained only minor injuries and is doing well,” Chief Lloyd reported.

Lloyd emphasized the importance of following proper procedures when an accident occurs. “Regardless of the circumstances, if an accident results in injury, it is crucial to contact law enforcement to conduct an investigation before leaving the scene,” he said.

With warmer weather approaching, Lloyd also urged parents to reinforce bicycle safety with their children and reminded drivers to stay alert for young pedestrians.

“Children often assume they have the right-of-way, and while that may sometimes be the case, they must always stop, look, and listen before crossing roadways,” he stated. “We need to remind our children to be smart and safe, and drivers must remain vigilant, as more children will be out riding bikes, walking, and playing.”

By prioritizing safety and awareness, both pedestrians and drivers can work together to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of everyone on the road.