Needham police and fire personnel responded to “numerous calls” at 4:30 p.m. on June 10, reporting that a motor vehicle had struck a child in the crosswalk at the intersection of Great Plain Avenue and Pickering Street.
According to a Needham Police Department press release, the juvenile involved was transported to Boston Children’s Hospital with injuries.
“Fortunately, the injuries are not life-threatening, and a full recovery is expected,” the press release states. “The investigation remains active as officers continue to gather and review video footage, witness statements, and other evidence related to the incident. No further information is being released at this time.”
As a result of the investigation conducted to date, a 47 year-old Attleboro resident is being charged with negligent operation of a motor vehicle and a crosswalk violation.
NPD later posted, “We are so happy to share that the juvenile involved in the crash is home, recovering, and surrounded by her friends and family. That is the news we all hope for.”
Justin McCullen, chair of the Transportation Safety Committee and Planning Board member, watched a video of the accident. McCullen said the juvenile was halfway across the crosswalk when she was startled by a yielding driver blowing their horn at an oncoming US Postal Service truck. Spooked, the juvenile ran back into the westbound lane.
The USPS driver involved in the collision remained on-scene and cooperated fully throughout the initial investigation.
In a card to Needham police, fire and EMS, the juvenile wrote, “Thank you for arriving so quickly after my accident. It was so helpful to see so many familiar faces, such as Officers Brienze and McChan [McMahon].”
During recent meetings and discussions around the town’s Envision project — which would reconfigure the streetscape along Great Plain Avenue — residents voiced conflicting opinions as to whether two lanes or four lanes would prove safer for pedestrians.
In light of ongoing concerns related to traffic safety, Needham police have increased traffic enforcement efforts throughout town, with a particular focus on Needham center and other areas experiencing heavy vehicle and pedestrian traffic. “Officers will be conducting targeted enforcement aimed at speeding, failure to yield to pedestrians, distracted driving, and other violations that contribute to unsafe roadway conditions,” the press release stated.
“This incident serves as an important reminder for all motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians to remain vigilant and attentive while traveling throughout the community. With the arrival of warmer weather, pedestrian activity increases significantly, particularly in high-traffic areas, near schools, parks, and local businesses.”
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