Police are looking for the driver of a late-model Mercedes Benz that struck and critically injured a pedestrian early Sunday morning in White Plains. Raul Rios, a 23 year old firefighter, was hit at approximately four a.m. while crossing East Post Road. Two witnesses who rushed to Rios’ aid were subsequently struck by a separate vehicle driven, according to police, by White Plains resident David Bautista. Police apprehended Bautista shortly thereafter and charged him with misdemeanor DWI and leaving the scene of an accident. The two good Samaritans were treated and released from White Plains Hospital Center. Rios is still in critical condition at Westchester Medical Center.
White Plains Police Commissioner David Chong released a statement saying, “we feel that because of the number of people on the streets, somebody may have seen the car and maybe even got a partial license plate number. We’re hoping that anyone with information will get in touch with us.” The police department has also released video footage and a photo of the suspected vehicle to aid in the effort to bring the driver to justice.
The black Mercedes suspected of hitting Raul Rios early Sunday morning.
Police have asked anyone with information regarding the hit and run to contact the Detective Division at 914-422-6217 or 914-422-6223. Calls will be kept confidential.
Website Resource:
Cops: 3 struck by 2 cars; motorists fled The Journal News, Richard Liebson, December 20, 2010
