South Boston Hit-And-Run Suspect Arrested For Third Offense

BOSTON (CBS) -- Massachusetts State Police say this the third offense for the man they've arrested in connection with the South Boston hit-and-run.

Richard Higgins, 78 of Attleboro, was taken into custody after being stopped at the Kosckiuzco Rotary.

State Police say Higgins was drunk and even though he lost a wheel, he fled the scene. Police also say that Higgins didn't stop until he was forced to stop by Boston Police.

The 12-year-old girl took a direct hit and was taken to Boston Medical Center. Authorities report that she is in critical condition.

Witnesses say the car was driving very fast.

"The car was driving so fast, so quick and hit my car," Neighbor Kleng Teresa said. "Then I'm going, 'What happened?'"

The grey Ford Explorer hit multiple vehicles, losing control, and swerving before making contact with the girl in the crosswalk.

"I saw the girl flew," Teresa said.

Richard Lopez said the car kept going.

"The car continued non-stop and the girl was just bleeding," Lopez said.

Although the driver didn't stop, some of those concerned neighbors may have saved the girl's life.

Diego Felix said he was also there to help.

"She wasn't moving at first when I came out, but after a while I guess she got conscious and started crying. That's when everybody started running around her and putting stuff on her head so the blood could stop flowing," Felix said.

The girl was taken to Boston Medical Center in serious condition and police have not released the name of the victim.

Police say this is Higgins' third offense and he is being charged with operating under the influence, leaving the scene of a crash, operating to endanger, and negligent operation of a motor vehicle.

Several cars were also hit.

State Police say that this is an ongoing investigation.