Officers located the suspected Honda CR-V at a nearby warehouse after striking child
April 26, 2026 | Lawrenceville, GA
A suspect has been arrested in connection with a hit-and-run that claimed the life of a 3-year-old child last month in Lawrenceville.
What happened in the crash?
Rohitbhai Patel, 67, was charged in hit-and-run crash after a blue 2008 Honda CR-V allegedly struck and killed a 3-year-old child on East Crogan Street in Lawrenceville.
- Date: April 26
- Location: Apartment complex at 287 East Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, GA
- Time: Approximately 5:10 a.m.
- Vehicle: Blue 2008 Honda CR-V
- Outcome: Child pronounced dead at the scene, and the driver fled
Police reports indicate the child was struck by the vehicle allegedly driven by Rohitbhai Patel, 67. Officers later located the Honda at a nearby warehouse and arrested Patel on charges of felony hit-and-run and second-degree vehicular homicide.
Why do hit-and-run accidents occur?
Approximately 23 percent of pedestrian fatalities each year involve hit-and-run drivers, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data. This rate has remained steady for decades. Common reasons drivers flee include intoxication, lack of a valid license, or fear of arrest.
| Statistic | Percentage | Source |
|---|
| Pedestrian fatalities from hit-and-runs | 23% | National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
| Consistent rate over decades | Yes | National Highway Traffic Safety Administration |
What legal options exist after a fatal crash?
Family members of victims may pursue a wrongful death claim. Eligible damages can include loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Legal Insights
In cases such as this, it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted to protect a family’s rights. Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all potential contributing factors that must be thoroughly examined. These steps help families pursue justice and compensation.
— Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal
We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure best interests are taken care of.
— Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal
Key takeaways:
- A thorough investigation of road and environmental factors is essential
- Families can seek damages for emotional and companionship losses
- Timely legal guidance supports navigation of official proceedings
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If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a hit-and-run, national legal analyst Candice Bond is available for a free, no-obligation consultation.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).