Two Girls Struck in West Englewood Hit-and-Run

Victims, ages 6 and 15, hospitalized after driver fled the scene

Feb. 21, 2026 at 3:03pm

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Two young girls, ages 6 and 15, were struck by a white SUV while in a crosswalk in Chicago's West Englewood neighborhood on Friday morning. The driver fled the scene, leaving the 6-year-old in critical condition and the 15-year-old with serious injuries. The Major Accidents and Investigation Unit is investigating the incident.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run incidents involving pedestrians, especially children, are a serious public safety concern in many urban areas. This case highlights the need for improved driver accountability, pedestrian safety measures, and community efforts to address traffic violence.

The details

According to police, the two girls were crossing the street in a crosswalk in the 1700 block of West 69th Street shortly before 7:45 a.m. when they were struck by a westbound white SUV. The driver of the SUV fled the scene after the collision. The 6-year-old girl suffered multiple injuries to her body and was taken to Comer Children's Hospital in critical condition. The 15-year-old girl suffered abrasions and was also transported to Comer, where she was listed in serious condition.

  • The incident occurred shortly before 7:45 a.m. on Friday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Chicago Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the hit-and-run incident.

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What’s next

The Major Accidents and Investigation Unit is continuing to investigate the incident and search for the driver who fled the scene.

The takeaway

This tragic hit-and-run highlights the need for improved driver accountability, enhanced pedestrian safety measures, and community efforts to address traffic violence and protect vulnerable road users, especially children, in urban neighborhoods.