Child struck by driver in Saanich crosswalk now recovering in hospital: police

A child suffered non-life-threatening injuries after being struck by a driver in a crosswalk near Mount Douglas Park Tuesday morning.

The incident happened on Shelbourne Street at San Juan Avenue around 7:20 a.m., prompting police to close the road in both directions.

Responding officers learned the child was walking to school and was in a marked crosswalk when they were struck by the driver of a southbound vehicle.

The child is now recovering in hospital, police said in an update later Tuesday morning.

Police have ruled out speed and drugs or alcohol as factors in the crash.

“The speed of the vehicle, which we believe was being driven under the speed limit, limited the severity of the injuries sustained by the child,” said Saanich Police spokesperson Const. Markus Anastasiades.

“This time of year we do see an uptick in the number of collisions involving pedestrians, so the timing of this incident is, unfortunately, a good reminder to all road users to be extra vigilant when approaching intersections.”

Commuters were asked to avoid the area while the investigation took place and Shelbourne Street reopened both ways at 9:18 a.m.

Police are reminding all drivers that they should proceed cautiously at all crosswalks and intersections, make sure their vehicle lights are all in working orders and that windshield and wipers are in good conditions.

They’re also encouraging pedestrians to wear lighter or reflective clothing to maintain visibility at this time of year, and staying vigilant in intersections or crosswalks.

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