HICKORY, N.C. — Two 15-year olds were struck by a vehicle Wednesday when they crossed a busy Hickory road despite the pedestrian signal indicating not to walk, police said.
The principal at Hickory High School spoke with students Thursday morning, a day after two were struck by the 2017 Chevy near the Chick-fil-A and Wendy’s on Second Street NE. School counselors were available.
Students often cross the roads at the intersection because it’s close to the high school located in the Viewmont community.
Police said the driver of the Chevy, Avianna Danner, 20, of Morganton, had the green light when the collision happened. She stopped at the scene.
Danner was going 45 mph in a 35-mph zone, police said. Danner was charged with speeding and not having a valid driver’s license.
The teens were transported to an area hospital. One was treated and released while the other remains in stable condition.
At least one restaurant has camera footage of the collision and handed it to the police.
Some students were being extra cautious.
“Definitely careful,” student Jakyah Harris told Channel 9’s Dave Faherty on Thursday. “We were even kind of scared to cross the road to come over here to go to Wendy’s. So, definitely cautious about that.”
Kat Dellinger lives nearby and crosses the road often with her son. She said, at times, the road can be dangerous.
“The speed limit is 35 (mph) and I rarely see people doing 35 here,” Dellinger said. “We cross this intersection frequently and he is very careful about the lights.”
The school district sent an email to parents saying, “Because we are located in an area with high traffic volume, families should discuss safety protocols for crossing busy streets with their students.”
Gregory Carlson drives through the area often for work and said he often sees drivers not paying attention.
“It’s pretty bad around here,” Carlson said. “People blow through lights all the time. If you don’t have your head on a swivel, it can be dangerous at times.”
Full statement from the school district:
“Earlier this afternoon, two students were struck by a vehicle while crossing a busy intersection off campus.
“Emergency services responded immediately, and both students were transported to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation and treatment. We have been informed that they are receiving care, and their families are with them.
“The safety and well-being of our students are always our top priority. We are working closely with local law enforcement as they investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Because we are located in an area with high traffic volume, families should discuss the safety protocol for crossing busy streets with their students if they allow them to be walkers.
“We understand that this news may be upsetting. Our school counselors are available to support any student who may be affected. If your child needs assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”
No additional details have been made available.
This is a developing story. Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.
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