Buffalo, NY (August 17, 2025) – A disturbing hit-and-run incident took place Saturday morning in a parking lot near Duke Rd, where a child in a shopping cart was struck by a vehicle that then fled the scene.
Emergency responders were quick to the scene, providing care to the injured victim following the crash, which was reported around 10:37 a.m. According to Cheektowaga Police, the vehicle involved—a black 2015 Kia Optima—was seen fleeing toward Duke Rd after the impact.
Officials stated that the incident occurred in a commercial parking lot, though the specific business has not been named. Surveillance footage from nearby cameras is expected to play a crucial role in identifying the driver, who left the scene without offering aid.
The condition of the child has not been officially released, but emergency medical services responded promptly, and it is presumed the child was transported for medical care.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are actively searching for the suspect vehicle and driver.
Our thoughts are with the injured child and their family during this difficult time.
Parking Lot Accidents and Child Safety in Buffalo
Parking lots, though often perceived as low-speed zones, are frequent sites of pedestrian accidents—especially involving children. The tragic nature of Saturday’s incident near Duke Rd underscores how quickly a momentary lapse in attention can result in injury, particularly when children are involved.
Small children in shopping carts are often below a driver’s line of sight, and without cautious driving, they can go unnoticed. For this reason, parking lot safety demands the same level of attention as busy intersections. Parents are encouraged to keep children close and visible, and drivers must remain alert, especially in lots near grocery stores or retail centers.
Fleeing the scene of any crash, particularly one involving a child, is a serious offense under New York law. Law enforcement agencies in Buffalo and Cheektowaga are treating the case with urgency, and the use of surveillance footage may lead to swift identification of the driver.
If you have information about this incident or witnessed the vehicle involved, you are urged to contact local authorities immediately.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.
