BREAKING: An 11-year-old girl has been seriously injured in a tragic accident on Lake Mead Boulevard in East Las Vegas during rush hour. The incident occurred just before 4:40 p.m. on Monday, October 23, 2023, when the girl was struck by a 2019 Nissan Rogue as she attempted to cross the busy road outside of a marked crosswalk.
Eyewitnesses report that heavy traffic was flowing when the accident happened, just east of Peaceful Spirit Lane. The driver, who remained at the scene and showed no signs of impairment, stated to police that they braked and swerved but could not avoid hitting the girl. She was swiftly transported to University Medical Center and is currently in serious condition, with authorities confirming that her injuries are severe.
According to a statement from the Metropolitan Police Department, the young victim was crossing southbound across Lake Mead Boulevard when the collision occurred. Investigators are actively working to piece together the precise sequence of events leading up to this unfortunate incident.
In response to rising concerns over pedestrian safety, local agencies, including the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada, are pursuing technological advancements and engineering solutions aimed at reducing pedestrian-related accidents. These initiatives include pilot programs for pedestrian-detection sensors and intersection analytics. On a national level, the U.S. Department of Transportation is advocating for a “Safe System” approach, which combines engineering, enforcement, and educational strategies to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
As this situation develops, the Collision Investigation Section of the Metropolitan Police is urging anyone with information on the incident to contact them at (702) 828-3595 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at (702) 385-5555. More updates are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
This incident underscores the urgent need for improved safety measures in high-traffic areas, particularly for vulnerable pedestrians. As the community rallies in support of the young girl and her family, officials are reminded of the critical importance of ensuring safer crossing environments for all. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
