PRAIRIE GROVE, Ark. — According to the Prairie Grove Police Department (PGPD), a 9-year-old girl was hit by a vehicle while riding her bike on Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024.
Officials said this happened around 7:38 a.m. at the intersection of Cole Drive and Viney Grove Road, prompting emergency crews and school staff to respond.
PGPD said the driver of the vehicle fled the scene of the crash, but officials later located the vehicle "as it drove through the city, eventually stopping at the Flash Market," and was arrested.
Officials said the girl was a Prairie Grove Middle School student. According to the release, she was evaluated by Central EMS and released with minor injuries.
The driver, who was identified as 36-year-old Amber Dexter, is being held at the Washington County Detention Center.
After the crash, the Prairie Grove School District said they plan to implement new safety protocols for students crossing at crosswalks on campus.
"Effective immediately, all students riding bikes or scooters must dismount and walk across the crosswalks," the district said. "We have already met with all bike and scooter riders to communicate this new rule."
The district also said the maintenance and transportation department is putting up new signs to remind students of this new rule.
"We appreciate your support in reinforcing these new safety measures with your children to ensure a safe environment for everyone," the district said.
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