Nine-Year-Old Boy Critically Injured in Hit-and-Run; Teen Driver Charged [NORFOLK, VA]

A 9-year-old Norfolk boy suffered life-threatening injuries Saturday night after being struck by a vehicle near the Old Dominion University campus, according to the Norfolk Police Department and local news reports. The crash occurred on August 22, 2026, near West 40th Street and Bowdens Ferry Road.

According to reporting from WTKR News 3, the child and his mother had recently returned home when he went outside to retrieve an item from a vehicle parked across the street. As he was crossing back, he was struck by a vehicle. Norfolk police responded at approximately 10:25 p.m. and found the child with life-threatening injuries. He was transported to Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters for treatment.

The child’s mother told WTKR that her son suffered multiple serious injuries and remained hospitalized following the crash. His injuries are expected to require an extended recovery.

Norfolk police later announced that an 18-year-old man from North Chesterfield had been charged with hit and run resulting in personal injury. The investigation remains ongoing.

The serious injuries suffered in this crash illustrate the potential consequences when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle. When a child is injured in a pedestrian crash, investigators may consider factors such as vehicle speed, visibility, roadway conditions, witness statements, and the actions of those involved. In this case, police have filed a hit-and-run charge, while the circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation.

Depending on the circumstances established during the investigation, the family of a child seriously injured in a pedestrian accident may have legal options under Virginia law. Medical records, evidence from the crash scene, witness information, and documentation of ongoing care may all become important when evaluating a potential personal injury claim.

Virginia’s contributory negligence rule can significantly affect pedestrian accident claims. Cases involving injured children can also raise additional legal considerations, making the specific facts surrounding how the collision occurred particularly important.

If your child or a family member was injured in a hit-and-run or pedestrian crash in Norfolk or anywhere in Hampton Roads, Breit Law is here to help. With more than 47 years of trial experience, William Breit has represented injured individuals and families throughout Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and all of Hampton Roads. To speak with an experienced Virginia personal injury attorney, contact us today.

Source: WAVY News 10; WTKR News 3

Map showing West 40th Street and Bowdens Ferry Road in Norfolk, Virginia, where a 9-year-old boy was critically injured in a hit-and-run crash on August 22, 2026.