Elderly Woman Charged in Hit-and-Run Leaving Child Hospitalized

82-year-old Karina Pubchara-Martinez accused of striking 7-year-old boy and fleeing the scene

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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An 82-year-old Miami woman has been arrested and charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving serious bodily injury after allegedly striking a 7-year-old boy with her car and then fleeing the scene, leaving the child with a brain lesion and a broken femur. The child was crossing the street with his mother when the incident occurred.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run incidents involving vulnerable road users like children are a serious public safety concern, especially when the driver flees the scene and leaves the victim injured. This case highlights the need for greater accountability and consequences for elderly drivers who may pose risks on the roads.

The details

According to the arrest report, Karina Pubchara-Martinez was driving a silver Toyota Camry when she struck the 7-year-old boy as he was crossing the street with his mother. The impact left the child with a brain lesion and a broken femur, requiring immediate hospitalization and surgery. Pubchara-Martinez allegedly failed to stop and render aid, instead fleeing the scene. Deputies later found pieces of the suspect's vehicle's bumper at the intersection.

  • The incident occurred on February 11, 2026.

The players

Karina Pubchara-Martinez

An 82-year-old Miami resident who has been charged with leaving the scene of a crash involving serious bodily injury.

7-year-old boy

The victim of the hit-and-run incident, who suffered a brain lesion and a broken femur as a result of being struck by Pubchara-Martinez's vehicle.

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What they’re saying

“It's alleged that you struck a seven-year-old child that was riding an electric scooter who was crossing the street with his mother, and after you struck the child, it's alleged that you fled. The child had serious injuries and had to go to the hospital.”

— Judge Mindy Glazer (CBS News Miami)

What’s next

The judge has set Pubchara-Martinez's bond at $7,500 and has ordered that she is not allowed to drive as a condition of her release.

The takeaway

This tragic hit-and-run incident underscores the need for greater accountability and consequences for elderly drivers who may pose risks on the roads, especially when vulnerable road users like children are involved. The case highlights the importance of ensuring the safety of all community members, regardless of age.