NORWAY — As school was letting out, a child was struck by a vehicle Wednesday near Guy E. Rowe Elementary School at the intersection of Paris and Main streets.
According to a witness, “the child was crossing the street and the crosswalk lights were flashing and the car just took a left and hit her. She went up onto the hood; I’m not sure if she hit the windshield but then rolled off again. I gasped and yelled ‘Oh my God!’ and called 911, but someone had already called. I think she was all right … she was crying but I think she was all right.”
Bystanders ran to help, and the driver of the car did stop, according to the witness.
The child was taken to MaineHealth Stephens Hospital to be checked for injuries.
Clayton Rowe, 31, of South Paris was turning left from Main Street to Paris Street in a 2011 Honda Accord when he struck the child. He told police he didn’t see the group that was crossing.
According to investigating officer James Ventresca, the 6-year-old was with two to three other children and a family friend as they crossed the street.
Ventresca said the child was transported to the hospital and “did not appear to have any major injuries” although, he added, all the tests had not come back as of last night.
“Drugs and alcohol were not factors,” said Ventresca, and his “speed is undetermined.”
Rowe was cited for failure to yield to a pedestrian in a controlled crosswalk. This is a civil violation that carries a fine of $154.
Rowe Principal Cathy Bickford wrote to parents immediately following the incident saying that some students had either witnessed or heard of the event and she recognized this could be a deeply upsetting experience. Consequently, she said, counselors would be available at the school on Thursday to help students process their emotions.
Comments are not available on this story.
Send questions/comments to the editors.