PUTNAM COUNTY, Fla. – A Satsuma man was arrested Wednesday morning after striking a Palatka school crossing guard and leaving the scene without stopping, according to the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.
News4JAX is not naming the driver because he is charged with a misdemeanor.
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Instigators say the 42-year-old driver was turning right from St. Johns Avenue onto Palm Avenue when he hit the crossing guard, who was in the crosswalk helping students safely across Palm Avenue. According to authorities, the driver ignored the crossing guard’s sign and her presence in the walkway before driving away without stopping or checking on her.
Several bystanders witnessed the incident and stopped to help the crossing guard. One witness provided Palatka Police officers with the vehicle’s license plate number, allowing officers to quickly locate and arrest him.
The driver was charged with hit-and-run, a misdemeanor, and was taken to the Putnam County Jail. He was released on $150 bond.
Despite the incident, the crossing guard refused to leave her post and completed her crossing duties Wednesday morning.
“This situation could have ended tragically, and we are very fortunate that our crossing guard was able to walk away from this incident with what appears to be bruises,” authorities said in a release.
Officials also thanked those who stopped to assist and provided information on the vehicle and license tag.
Palatka Police want to remind all drivers that school is back in session, bringing increased traffic — particularly around Palatka schools.