SEAFORD, Del.- An 8-year-old Seaford boy struck by a van earlier this week has died from his injuries, according to police.
Delaware State Police say Carlos Hernandez had been hospitalized in critical condition following the accident that happened shortly after 8 p.m. Tuesday on Seaford Road just south of Roosevelt Street in Seaford. However, just before 4 p.m. Wednesday, the child succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash.
Police say an investigation revealed that a 2001 Dodge van, driven by 27-year-old Gary L. Bell of Laurel, Del., was traveling northbound on Seaford Road before the collision. Investigators say that reportedly Carlos was walking along the northbound shoulder of Seaford Road when for an unknown reason he suddenly darted left, directly into the path of the van.
Carlos, who suffered head trauma as a result of the collision, was transported by police helicopter to Christiana Hospital where he passed away.
Police say they do not suspect impairment or speed on the part of the driver as contributing factors in the collision.
Meantime, grief counselors will be available to meet with students Thursday from 9 a.m. to noon at Blades Elementary School, said Paula Johnson, director of elementary education for the Seaford School District. Parents can bring their children to the school for counseling, Johnson said.
