A Saint Louis University student was hit by a speeding white SUV while crossing the road near campus yesterday evening around 8 p.m. The driver, who remains unidentified, fled the scene, leaving the student severely injured.
Witnesses to the event on Grand Blvd. between the Marchetti Towers and Laclede intersection rushed to help the injured student. One witness, Colin Thierry, said that the SUV was traveling “60, maybe 70 mph” when it clipped the student.
Authorities are still putting the details together on the driver and the SUV, but Thierry said he believed that the car was stolen, which he noted could explain its involvement in the accident.
Thierry added that the SLU student was not responsive after the incident, and it was not long before both the Metropolitan police and SLU’s Department of Public Safety officers were at the scene. The student was immediately taken to a hospital.
Thierry further claimed the driver “possibly” did not see the pedestrian crossing the road, but regardless slated the erratic nature of the driving in a road that has posted speed limits of 35 mph.
After the incident, Saint Louis University sent out an alert to all its students and staff, saying that DPS has increased patrols in the area of the incident. The number for the University Counseling Center was also provided in the email for those who need counseling services. The email also asked for everyone to remain alert and aware of their surroundings, and scan for persons or activity of suspicion at all times.
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