Dani Korkis charged in Ballantyne Street hit-and-run crash

Police say Korkis drove the BMW X5 that struck a pedestrian in El Cajon

October 22, 2025 | El Cajon, CA
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A 12-year-old boy suffered serious head injuries when a vehicle struck him and the driver fled the scene in El Cajon. Authorities arrested 35-year-old Dani Korkis of Lakeside on suspicion of felony hit-and-run in connection with the October 22 incident.

What Happened in the Crash?

Authorities arrested 35-year-old Dani Korkis from Lakeside on felony hit-and-run after striking a 12-year-old boy on the 300 block of Ballantyne Street in El Cajon.

Police say the boy was walking in the 300 block of Ballantyne Street near East Park Avenue around 8 p.m. when a white BMW X5 driven by Korkis hit him.

The child was rushed to a hospital with major head trauma.

Key Details of the Incident

• Date: Oct. 22, 2025
• Location: 300 block of Ballantyne Street, near East Park Avenue, El Cajon, California
• Victim: 12-year-old boy, unidentified
• Injuries: Serious head trauma
• Suspect: Dani Korkis, 35, of Lakeside
• Vehicle: White BMW X5

How Authorities Caught the Suspect

Investigators used license plate reader technology to track down the damaged BMW. The vehicle matched debris left at the scene.

Korkis was taken into custody and faces felony hit-and-run charges.

Hit-and-Run Crash Statistics

Hit-and-run incidents remain a significant concern on U.S. roads. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, these crashes often leave victims without immediate aid.

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration highlights the scale of the problem.

Expert Insights

National legal analysts provide perspective on handling hit-and-run cases.

“Having the proper resources is crucial to investigating a hit-and-run accident case and proving negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all potential contributing factors that are considered and must be thoroughly examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those affected by a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”

“Although no amount of money can make up for a devastating injury, it is important that victims are made aware of their rights and what they are entitled to by law,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “In cases such as this, recovery may include medical expenses, future medical care, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.”

Key Takeaways

• Independent investigations by experienced attorneys can protect victims' rights.
• Factors like road conditions and lighting must be examined to establish negligence.
• Victims may pursue claims for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
• Prompt action is essential to gather evidence in hit-and-run scenarios.

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