NEWPORT, NC, (March 29, 2026) – A 4-year-old girl was seriously injured Sunday afternoon after being struck by a vehicle in Newport, according to local police.
Authorities said Jesus Velasquez, 51, of Newport, was driving on Howard Boulevard near East Forest Drive when his vehicle struck the child near a crosswalk around 1:50 p.m.
The girl sustained traumatic blunt force injuries and was airlifted to ECU Health Medical Center. Officials said her condition is currently stable.
Investigators have not determined whether the child was inside the crosswalk at the time of the collision. Velasquez remained at the scene and was later cited for operating a motor vehicle without a valid license. The investigation is ongoing.
