(Credit for Photo: Photo Courtesy of WPXI-TV Pittsburgh
Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News
(Rochester, PA) New details have been released following the arrest of a driver in a hit-and-run crash that killed a child in Rochester on Friday.
Dispatchers said emergency crews were called to the intersection of Pennsylvania Avenue and Lacock Street at approximately 4:50 p.m. for reports of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle.
Authorities said the victim, a third grader believed to be between 10 and 12 years old, was riding a bicycle at the time. Police said a driver in a black truck struck the child. According to a criminal complaint, the incident was captured on video.
Officials said first responders attempted life-saving measures, but the child died at the scene.
Investigators determined the vehicle was registered to 53-year-old Thomas Earl Cole of Monaca. According to the complaint, officers who spoke with Cole reported smelling an odor of alcohol on his breath.
The complaint states that Cole requested an attorney and questioned police about a potential DUI. After being taken into custody and advised of his Miranda rights, Cole told investigators he had been in the area and was trying to find his way home due to a road closure. He said he felt a bump while turning but believed he had struck a pile of rocks, according to the complaint.
Court records show Cole is charged with homicide by vehicle while DUI, accidents involving death or personal injury, and DUI.
Police said Cole was taken to the Beaver County Jail, arraigned Saturday, and denied bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 7.
A GoFundMe has been arranged so the family of the victim can pay for funeral arrangements and other expenses.
You can donate to the GoFundMe for the victim by clicking on the link below: