A man who critically wounded a four-year-old boy in a hit-and-run is being held in custody.
18-year-old James Doherty ploughed his car into the child – and a woman – in Lawrence Weston, Bristol at around 2pm on Sunday afternoon (17 November).
Immediately after the collision, the defendant fled the scene but was later arrested.
The four-year-old boy remains in hospital in a critical condition. His family continue to be supported by specially trained officers from Avon and Somerset Police.
The woman, aged in her late teens, also sustained a leg injury which required hospital treatment. She has since been discharged to continue her recovery.
At Bristol Magistrates’ Court this morning (Tuesday), he pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and was remanded into custody. He’ll be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on 17 December.
Serious Collision Investigator David Paniccia-Brown said: “Doherty’s driving was utterly reckless and has left a very young boy in hospital with incredibly serious injuries.
“His decision to drive in the manner he did put lives at risk and his decision to run away immediately after the collision in an attempt to avoid the consequences of his actions, rather than try and help, were cowardly.
“Our thoughts remain with the boy’s family who have been updated on this development and continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
“I’d like to thank all the officers involved in ensuring we were able to quickly put a strong case before the court and ensure this conviction.”
Neighbourhood Inspector Serena Serjeant added: “We recognise the concern this collision has caused within Lawrence Weston and officers have been carrying out extra reassurance patrols in the area since Sunday.
“If you have any worries or concerns then please do approach an officer.”
