MIDDLETOWN, OH, (April 10, 2026) – A 13-year-old boy was critically injured in a hit-and-run crash involving an allegedly impaired driver Friday evening in Middletown.
According to the Middletown Police Department, Richard “Alex” Medina was riding his bicycle near Breiel Boulevard and Lefferson Road at approximately 5:45 p.m. when he was struck by a vehicle. The driver fled the scene immediately after the collision.
A witness provided a description of the suspect vehicle, which helped officers locate it on Town Boulevard near a Kroger store shortly after the incident.
Medina suffered life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, where he remained hospitalized for 17 days. Authorities said he has since been released but continues to experience vision loss, hearing loss, and memory issues.
A fundraiser has been established to assist the family with ongoing expenses.
Police identified the suspect as Thomas Harris, 35, of Dayton. He was arrested and reportedly displayed bloodshot, glassy eyes at the time. Harris faces charges of aggravated vehicular assault, operating a vehicle under the influence (second offense within 10 years), and leaving the scene of an accident.
The Middletown Police Department continues to investigate the crash.
