Suspected DUI driver arrested after mother, children struck in crosswalk

BREMERTON, Wash. — Bremerton police are investigating after a mother and her three children were struck while walking on a crosswalk Thursday morning.

After 8:30 a.m., the mother was pushing a double stroller with two children inside while another child was walking with her.

The family was on a crosswalk on Naval Avenue and 11th Street when they were hit by a van, police said.

Investigators said they were thrown about 30 feet into the middle of the intersection.

Investigators said the 27-year-old driver ran a red light. She stopped but showed signs of impairment.  Before noon, police said she was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

“It’s heartbreaking, it’s horrible, drugs, alcohol, whatever it may be should not be involved in anybody that’s driving,” said Laura Talkington, who lives near where the crash happened.

She said cars often speed, and she never lets her daughter out of her sight.

“When I go out there to get into my car I hold her hand tightly because I’m afraid of her running out and nobody seeing her and hitting her,” she said.

The mother and the three children, ages 3,4 and 6, were taken to Harrison Hospital and appeared stable, police said. They are expected to make a full recovery.

There is an elementary school nearby but it's unknown if the mom and children were on their way to school.

“I don’t think when you’re taking your kids to school you should have to worry about it. The school is a block away from that light, people should be going slow regardless, especially this time of year,” said Shawna McCormack.

The driver will be booked into the Kitsap County Jail.

“Right now, it’s really imperative for people to take the extra moment, slow down, watch for people, watch for these kids going to school,” said Lt. Aaron Elton, Bremerton Police Department.

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