PALATKA, Fla. – A Putnam County Sheriff’s Office crossing guard was struck by a vehicle Wednesday morning while working near a Palatka school, and authorities say the driver continued from the scene without stopping to check on her.
The incident happened on the morning of Aug. 12, after the crossing guard had finished helping students cross Palm Avenue.
According to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, Brian Ferrell, 42, of Satsuma, was making a right turn from St. Johns Avenue onto Palm Avenue when his vehicle struck the crossing guard.
Authorities said Ferrell ignored the crossing guard’s sign and her presence in the crosswalk.
Investigators allege Ferrell knew he had struck the woman but continued driving rather than stopping to check on her or remain at the scene.
Witness Provides License Plate to Police
Several witnesses stopped to help the injured crossing guard following the collision.
One witness was able to provide Palatka Police officers with the license plate number of the vehicle involved, allowing officers to quickly identify and locate Ferrell.
Ferrell was arrested on a misdemeanor hit-and-run charge and taken to the Putnam County Jail.
He was later released on $150 bond.
Crossing Guard Remains at Post Despite Injuries
The sheriff’s office said the crossing guard appeared to have suffered bruising and was sore following the collision.
Despite being struck, she refused to leave her post and completed her crossing duties Wednesday morning.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office said the incident could have had a much more serious outcome and reminded motorists to use additional caution now that school is back in session and traffic has increased around Palatka schools.
Authorities also credited the witnesses who stopped to assist the crossing guard and provided officers with information about the suspect vehicle.
That information, particularly the license plate number, helped police locate Ferrell shortly after the incident.