Sources: 14-year-old boy dies after being hit by car

GASTON COUNTY, N.C. — Sources told Channel 9 that a 14-year-old boy who was struck by a car early Friday morning has died.

State troopers said Steven Canipe -- a student at Cramerton Middle School -- was hit on his way to school on New Hope Road near North Avenue around 7:25 a.m.

The driver of the car was in tears. She could barely speak to Channel 9 because she was so concerned about the student.

She had just dropped her daughter off at Cramerton Middle School.

IMAGES: Teenage boy struck by car in Gaston Co.

Troopers said Canipe ran out in front of her right at North Drive

When Channel 9 arrived, he was already headed to the hospital.

His book bag and shoes were left behind.

He was walking to school and had to cross the road to get there.
      
Canipe was thrown onto the hood of the car shattering the windshield.
      
Shards of glass were all over the front seats.
      
Channel 9 reporter Ken Lemon said dozens of paramedics tried to save the boy's life at the scene.

An ambulance took him to CaroMont Regional Medical Center. He was then flown to Carolinas Medical Center with severe injuries to his head and legs.
      
The driver may not be charged, police said.

"It's just a case of a young boy trying to make his way to school in the morning and just ran out in front of a vehicle," said N.C. Highway Patrol Trooper J.J. Let.

Police had closed the southbound lanes of New Hope Road for a short time while they investigated the crash but have since reopened them.

Statement from Cramerton Middle School:

“Our school family is deeply saddened by this tragedy. Every child is precious and we are devastated about what happened this morning. Our thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

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