CATONSVILLE, Md. — The search is on for the driver who Baltimore County Police say didn't even try to stop as they hit and killed a 12-year-old girl, and badly hurt her pregnant aunt in Catonsville Friday night.
It happened around 9:30 p.m. at the intersection of North Rolling and Johnnycake Roads as the pair was crossing the road. Police say the victim, Maria Popal, was new to the area and hadn't started at a local school yet. Her 32-year-old aunt was taken to the hospital and is now stable.
Below is a video of the suspect car. Police say the car in the video is fleeing the scene after hitting the young girl and her aunt. The suspect car is believed to be an early 90's model Honda Accord that may have a black stripe or trim across the doors. It's likely have damage to the front passenger side corner.
The suspect vehicle can be seen driving from the left to right side of the screen. Another vehicle that was not involved can also be seen in the video driving from the right to left side of the screen.
"Such a tragedy. You really hate to think about that type of thing happening," said Andy Park, who lives nearby.
People who live and work near the intersection are shaken up and say the intersection is known to be very dangerous.
"Cars fly through here," said pedestrian Raynard Anders. "You have to be extra vigilant when it comes to walking around here, especially during the late hours in the evening and night."
"We all complain about this intersection and this section of Rolling Road because it's gets a little crazy sometimes," said Andy Park. "Every couple weeks, you’ll hear this loud brakes screeching and you’ll be like, 'what's that?' or you’ll hear a loud bang or pop and you’ll be like, 'was it an accident?'"
As police investigate what caused the crash, they're looking for the driver who didn't even try to stop.
"It is a two-part investigation that we're looking into. We're just trying to determine who is responsible for the accident. It's a possibility that our investigation could say it's pedestrian error if they were crossing against a light or not crossing in part of a crosswalk," said Cpl. Shawn Vinson. "And then there’s the criminal aspect of leaving the scene of an accident that involved a death. Even though you may not be responsible for the accident, you still are obligated to remain at the scene and offer treatment or care or call 911 if you’re involved in striking someone."
"I would ask the person who did the hit and run to be responsible and think about the victim and come forward," said neighbor Tony Harvey. "Lets be a little more caring of other people."
Police cannot release any information about the 32-year-old's unborn child because of Maryland medical record laws.
Anyone who sees a vehicle similar to the description should call 9-1-1 immediately or contact police at 410-307-2020. Callers may remain anonymous. Every tip, regardless of how small, will be investigated. Tips received through Metro Crime Stoppers may also be eligible for a reward
