A Martinsville man was charged in connection with the hit-and-run of a Henry County boy on Thursday, on Virginia 57 in Henry County, according to a release from the Virginia State Police. After extensive investigation and conducting multiple interviews, state police identified
David Paul Walker, 57, of Martinsville, as the driver of the white Toyota pickup truck that allegedly struck a child and then fled the scene.
Walker was charged with a felony count of hit-and-run and is being held without bond at the Henry County Jail.
The crash occurred at 3:23 p.m. in the 8000 block of Virginia 57. A Henry County Public Schools bus was stopped in the northbound travel lane to let an 8-year-old student exit the bus.
As the child was crossing Virginia 57, he was struck by a westbound white Toyota pickup truck. The Toyota immediately fled the scene after the crash. The school bus had its flashing lights and stop arm activated at the time of the crash.
By viewing video pulled from the school bus’s onboard camera system, state troopers were able to quickly confirm and identify the suspect vehicle involved in the crash.
“Thanks to multiple tips called in by the public and the persistent hard work of our troopers and special agents, state police was able to identify the suspect driver and take him into custody at approximately 1:30 a.m. Friday,” said Capt. Richard A. Denney, Virginia State Police Salem Division commander. “We are keeping the young boy and his family in our prayers as he continues to recover from his very serious injuries.”
Henry County Commonwealth’s Attorney, Andrew Nester, thanked the Virginia State Police for their expeditious investigation and making the arrest.
“Our office will continue to work closely with the Virginia State Police as this case develops further and the criminal charges advance through the court system. If anyone has information regarding this case, please contact the state police,” Nester said.
The vehicle involved in the alleged incident also was located and recovered as evidence, according to the release.
The boy was flown to Roanoke Memorial Hospital, where he is being treated for life-threatening injuries sustained in the crash.
A GoFundMe post, which identifies the youngster, also includes regular updates of his condition. To donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/y4fq9-jaxons-medical-expenses?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=p_cp%20share-sheet&fbclid=IwAR1KwMhmMLHO8rfBybPYWIs3fbQUglqHqNjEGnw3QEdcfI7i2rKB4a7CwMk.
The investigation is continuing, according to the release.
