On Thursday, May 28th, 2015, at 2:58 p.m., Dubuque Police and Fire personnel responded to 28th and Jackson Streets on the report of a child struck by a vehicle.
The investigation revealed that a 13 year old male, Saffrey (no middle name) Kiotak, of Dubuque, ran out from in between parked vehicles (in a westerly direction) and into the passenger side of a northbound vehicle being operated by Jarrod D. Ruggles, 21, of 2709 Jackson Street, Dubuque. Ruggles was not afforded the opportunity to take evasive action and was determined not at fault. However, Ruggles fled the scene and was later located at his residence. He was cited for not having a valid driver’s license, leaving the scene of a crash, and not rendering aid. He was released on those citations and not taken to jail. Kiotak was transported to Mercy Hospital by the Dubuque Fire Department. At the time of this release, he was still being treated but his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
This tragic event serves as a reminder to motorists to increase vigilance now that school has released for the summer and the weather is warming. Motorists can expect a significant increase in children outside playing, riding bicycles, and otherwise enjoying the outdoors. Parents and guardians are also reminded to discuss general summer safety with children - covering topics such as stranger-danger and bicycle/pedestrian safety (primarily crossing/entering streets).