CHESAPEAKE, Va. — An 8-year-old boy died after he was struck by a vehicle in Chesapeake late Tuesday afternoon, authorities said.
Chesapeake police responded to the 1700 block of Battlefield Boulevard South at around 4:15 p.m. At the scene, officials found 8-year-old Forrest Hooper who had been hit by a vehicle. Forrest was rushed to a hospital where he ultimately died from his injuries, police said.
The vehicle fled the scene before officers arrived. No suspect information was immediately released.
A statement shared by Chesapeake Public Schools confirmed that Hooper was a third-grade student at Southeastern Elementary School.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time," A message from Principal Tracy Cioppa reads. "I also offer condolences to all the Southeastern Elementary School students and staff members, especially Forrest’s classmates, teachers, and support staff."
The message said grief and crisis counselors will be at the school for the next few days for staff and students who may need help throughout the day.
“[I’m] feeling for the parents,” said Chesapeake resident Nelson Johnson.
Johnson can’t find the words to describe his feelings after learning Forrest died in a hit-and-run incident.
“I just know there’s a lot of pain involved and I don’t know what else to say about it,” he said.
Neighbors in the area say police blocked off a section of the road for hours after the incident.
“It’s [not just] the fact that the person did it, the fact that it’s a hit and run makes it more of a tragedy,” Johnson said.
Johnson said it’s even more concerning it happened in a neighborhood he’s known all his life. Johnson said he wants the suspect to go to the police.
“Whoever did that should turn themselves in because eventually, they’re going to get caught," Johnson said. "So, turn themselves in and deal with the situation. That’s what I would suggest.”
If you know anything about this hit-and-run, you're urged to call the Crime Line at 1-888-562-5887 or online at P3Tips.com. You can remain anonymous.