3-year-old critically injured by car in Sunset Park
Officials say the child was with her mother after they had just returned from grocery shopping.
A 3-year-old girl was critically injured early Thursday morning when she was struck by a car in Sunset Park.
Officials say it happened just after midnight on 50th Street. They say the child was with her mother after they had just returned from grocery shopping.
Police officials say the child, identified as Briela Aviles, was standing on the sidewalk with her mother, Brisa Gonzalez, when she suddenly ran between two parked cars and into the street. A passing vehicle struck her moments later.
Witnesses described a devastating impact.
“The car was too fast and it impacted the girl,” said Cassie, a family friend. “The car sent the girl around five buildings, and the mom was hugging the girl in her arms.”
Friends say Gonzalez had recently celebrated Briela’s third birthday in January while staying with them. Neighbors expressed shock and grief over the incident, calling it heartbreaking for the close-knit community.
“It’s really sad. I’ve been on this block my whole life. It just sucks. The world that we live in right now,” said neighbor Rachel Huertas.
Investigators say the 43-year-old driver remained at the scene following the collision. Witnesses reported the vehicle was speeding, a concern that local residents say is common on the street where the crash occurred.
“A lot of cars drive through fast, very dangerous,” said neighbor Wendy. “I feel so sad that happened last night.”
Emergency responders rushed Briela to Bellevue Hospital Center in critical condition. Family members and friends say they are now anxiously waiting for updates on her condition.
“We are still waiting for news because she’s in the hospital in Manhattan, so we don’t know anything right now,” said Cassie.
Police say the investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made as they work to determine exactly what led to the crash. Briela remains in critical condition.
