via Khmer NZ
Monday, 23 Aug 2010 04:52am
Police and the family of a 13-year-old boy injured in a hit and run incident on Australia Day this year are appealing for the driver to hand himself in to police.
At about 8.25pm on Tuesday 26 January this year, 13-year-old Visal Um was riding his blue mountain bike along Sackville Street, Canley Vale.
Approaching an intersection, he commenced crossing into Pevensey Street when he was hit by a black Toyota Hilux making a right hand turn.
Visal was struck and his bike dragged 20 metres.
The driver did not stop and continued along Pevensey Street.
Visal’s father, Seng Hong Tann, was only metres behind his son also riding a bike and witnessed the impact.
Visal was rushed to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead suffering head injuries and was placed in an induced coma.
Although he has recovered from most of his physical injuries his treating doctors say he now has a permanent severe brain injury.
He also has a hearing impairment on the left side which will impact significantly on his ability to learn.
Visal and his mother only arrived in Australia from Cambodia just six weeks before the crash.
Metropolitan Crash Unit investigator Senior Sergeant Peter Jenkins today appealed for the driver of the Black Toyota Hilux vehicle to come forward.
“There were several witnesses at the time and we believe the driver would have known he had been involved in a collision,” Sn Sgt Peter Jenkins said.
“We appeal to him to come forward or to anyone who may know of his identity to contact police.
“This little boy’s life has been changed forever as a result of his incident and the impact on his family, who are only recent arrivals to Australia, has been significant.”
Visal’s father, Seng Hong Tann said he will be forever haunted by the sight of his injured son lying on the roadway.
“I wish no other parent would ever have to suffer this horrific experience,” Mr Tann said.
“I am one of the lucky ones and am very grateful my son is alive.
“However I cannot understand how anyone could not stop to help an injured child.”
Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information which may lead to the identity of the driver relating to the driver is asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Callers can remain anonymous.
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