Video shows suspected impaired driver striking child on bicycle in Titusville, police say

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Video shows suspected impaired driver striking child on bike

Surveillance video released by Titusville police shows the moment a child riding a bicycle was struck by a driver investigators say was impaired Tuesday night.

Surveillance video released by Titusville police shows the moment a child riding a bicycle was struck by a driver investigators say was impaired Tuesday night.

The crash happened just before 10 p.m. on South Hopkins Avenue. 

What we know:

Video shows the child riding a bicycle before entering the roadway moments before being hit by a vehicle. The impact threw the child onto the vehicle's windshield.

The child was taken to a local children's hospital, where medical staff said the victim suffered serious injuries but was in stable condition. Police said the child was not wearing a bicycle helmet.

Police identified the driver as 52-year-old Eric Blythe. He was arrested and charged with driving under the influence causing serious bodily injury and refusing to submit to a DUI test.

"Choosing to drive impaired is a decision that can change lives forever in a matter of seconds," said Interim Chief Tyler Wright. "No destination, celebration, or convenience is worth risking the life of
a child or anyone else on our roadways."

Blythe was jailed on a $15,500 bond. Police said the investigation remains active and additional charges are possible.

What we don't know:

Investigators said additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues but did not specify what those charges might be.

The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Titusville Police Department.

Brevard County NewsTitusvilleCrime and Public Safety