Friend of 13-year-old hit by car: 'I wish I could forget'

SALISBURY, N.C. — A 13-year-old was walking home with friends when he was hit by a car Monday night in Salisbury, police said.

The group of about six teens had been skateboarding earlier, but were walking along the shoulder of Harrison Road when the crash happened.

Reporter Tina Terry spoke to Sean Lankford, who was with the teen.

"It was a really crazy night, it's hard to explain. I wish I could forget," Lankford said.

Lankford said the car seemed to be speeding when it slammed into his friend and just missed two other people.

"He had the whole street to himself, but he still managed to almost hit three of us, but only one of us got hit," Lankford said.

He said the 13-year-old was unresponsive after the crash and had some very serious injuries to his leg, chest and a possible head injury. He’s hoping the teen will recover.

"It was really bad. We did the best we could until the ambulance arrived, and he was airlifted,” Lankford said.

Police said the driver remained at the scene.

City leaders said Harrison Road is maintained by the state. Their records show 12 accidents at Harrison and Independence since Jan. 2014. The speed limit is 45, but neighbors said people usually go faster.

"I'm even scared to go to the mailbox because they go so fast," one neighbor said.

Police said they're still investigating the crash, but Lankford said he's focused on his friend.

"Prayers go out, hope he's okay, sorry for his family," Lankford said.

Police have not filed any charges against the driver yet.

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