A 13-year-old girl was hospitalized after being struck by a vehicle on Saturday at an Overton ISD property. According to the Overton Police Department (PD), officers responded to the scene alongside Christus EMS and Overton Volunteer Fire Department after the serious pedestrian crash.
The initial investigation revealed that the child was hit by a vehicle and became trapped underneath it. While several individuals were present at the scene, none were enrolled in Overton ISD, according to CBS19.
Bystanders tried to help the victim but failed to immediately call 911. Overton PD stated that Angel Rupkey, the driver of the vehicle, took control and “intentionally drove over her a second time” in an effort to dislodge the child.
“This tragic and reckless decision caused further injury to the victim and should never have occurred,” said Overton PD in their statement. Emergency responders quickly secured the area, and the girl was airlifted to a nearby hospital, where she is currently in stable condition.
Following an investigation, footage provided by Overton ISD led to the arrest of Angel Rupkey. She has been charged with aggravated assault, and her bond was set at $150,000. Rupkey was taken into custody on September 30 and is currently being held at the Smith County Jail.
The incident has sparked concern and outrage, with local authorities emphasizing the severity of the situation and the consequences of the reckless actions.