Shocking hit-and-run leaves 12-year-old injured as police seek public’s help

SURPRISE, Ariz. — The Surprise Police Department is appealing for public assistance to locate a hit-and-run driver who seriously injured a 12-year-old boy on Thursday evening.

Bridger Benner was biking home from a park where he had been playing basketball when he was struck. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. near 175th Avenue and West Paradise Lane.

“I thought the car would slow down as I crossed, but it didn’t,” Bridger recounted, after experiencing moments of unconsciousness. He awoke alone in the street.

Bridger’s mother, Lisa, described the incident’s severity, noting that her son’s bike was crushed beneath the vehicle. “This was no small tap. His bike was dragged and broke in half, and he was thrown about 25 feet,” she said.

The family believes the speed of the car was above the limit when the incident occurred. “For a bike to go that far… it just doesn’t add up,” said his father, Mason Benner.

Efforts by police to retrieve additional footage or photographs of the crash have thus far been unsuccessful, complicating their investigation. Surprise Police Public Information Specialist Christopher Thomas expressed the need for community involvement in the case.

The wanted vehicle is described as a dark gray Toyota Camry, likely from 2018 or later. Notably, it should have front-end damage and possibly a missing front-right passenger mirror.

Despite his injuries, Bridger is expected to recover fully, a relief to his family who credits his bicycle helmet with reducing the potential for more serious injury. “I always wear my helmet,” Bridger stated.

His mother shared her disbelief at the driver’s actions: “I can’t imagine how someone can leave another person like that, just lying in the road.”

Authorities are urging the community to report any information regarding the incident. Individuals with tips can contact Surprise police at 623-222-4000 or use the tip line at 623-222-TIPS (8477).