A vehicle struck a 15-year-old autistic boy who was playing in the street. The incident, which took place along the Nonpariel main road in Negril, Westmoreland, has left the teen hospitalised in critical condition.
A report says the incident happened around 5 p.m. on Monday. Sheldon was observed running and playing across the busy roadway multiple times. A bystander filmed his activity, showing when he attempted to cross once more, and when he was hit by a passing vehicle.
The collision sent him several feet away from the point of impact. Witnesses screamed in response to the terrifying moment. Although the official report has not yet disclosed his name, the video obtained by Moon-10 shared that the child is identified as Sheldon Graham. The report said that the teen is a student of the Llandilo School of Special Education.
The video begins with him moving along the roadside before stepping into the path of oncoming traffic. Sheldon initially walks backwards into the street before he begins to jog across to the opposite side. Once there, he waits and watches vehicles pass. Seconds later, he attempts to cross again, sprinting forward, which leads to the collision.
The scene quickly drew the attention of nearby residents and motorists, who gathered around the injured boy while awaiting emergency responders. He was transported to the Savanna-la-Mar Hospital, according to the report. He has since been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. His condition is said to be critical.
Based on the footage, it appears that in the moments after the crash, the teen, though injured, was able to speak briefly. He identified himself by name but could not recall his parents’ or guardian’s contact information. Official reports have not yet mentioned his guardian. Authorities are now probing the collision to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
