Bridgeport, CT (January 6, 2026) – A 12-year-old girl was critically injured after being struck by a vehicle on Monday evening on Park Ave near Wade St in Bridgeport, prompting a road closure and ongoing police investigation.
The incident took place on January 5 at approximately 5:02 p.m., when the child was hit while walking near the intersection of Park Ave and Wade St. Authorities confirmed the young pedestrian was taken to the hospital in critical condition. She has since been listed as stable, though her injuries remain serious.
Park Ave was initially closed between Wade St and Chalmers St while investigators worked the scene. Later updates expanded the closure zone to Park Ave between Beach Pl and Eaton St to allow officers to collect evidence and examine contributing factors. The road has since reopened.
The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation, according to police. No citations or charges have been announced at this time.
Our thoughts are with the injured child and her family as she continues to receive medical care.
Pedestrian Crashes Involving Children in Connecticut
Collisions involving child pedestrians, like the January 5 crash in Bridgeport, are among the most devastating incidents first responders face. In neighborhoods and along busy corridors such as Park Avenue, even routine walks home from school or nearby stores can turn tragic in an instant.
Children are especially vulnerable in pedestrian crashes due to their smaller size, slower reaction times, and difficulty judging vehicle speed and distance. These crashes often result in severe injuries, particularly when they occur on multi-lane roadways or near intersections without sufficient crossing controls.
In the aftermath of such events, families may be left managing medical trauma, emotional stress, and legal complexities. Recovery for a young victim may involve surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term monitoring — all of which require support and access to the right resources.
If your child has been injured in a pedestrian collision, it’s essential to know your rights and get help navigating medical, legal, and financial recovery options.
At Local Accident Reports, we’re committed to keeping communities informed and helping injury victims and their families find the tools they need to recover. Follow Local Accident Reports for ongoing updates and resources after pedestrian-related crashes throughout Connecticut.