A northwest Indianapolis family is mourning the loss of a 9-year-old boy who was killed Sunday after he and his younger brother were struck by an SUV in an apparent hit-and-run.
Roland “RJ” McLain III was outside with his 6-year-old brother near an apartment complex in the 6700 block of Eagle Pointe Drive North on Sunday afternoon, October 4, when they were struck by a vehicle, according to Indianapolis police.
Police responded shortly after 1:30 p.m. after receiving reports of a child lying in the street. Both children were taken to a hospital, where RJ later died from his injuries. His younger brother was initially hospitalized in critical condition but has since been released and is recovering.
Driver Arrested
Investigators gathered video and witness information that helped them identify the vehicle involved. Automated license plate reader technology was then used to track the SUV to the Lawrence area.
About two hours after the crash, officers located the vehicle at a car wash near Pendleton Pike and East 56th Street and arrested 31-year-old Franck Anderson Bazil without incident.
According to court documents, Bazil told investigators that he struck something while leaving his apartment complex. He reportedly stopped briefly after being told he had hit a child but then drove away, telling police he was scared and did not know what to do.
Bazil faces charges of failure to remain at the scene of a crash resulting in death and failure to remain at the scene of a crash resulting in serious bodily injury. He remains in custody pending court proceedings.
A Family Left Grieving
The tragedy happened just hours before RJ was scheduled to celebrate his ninth birthday.
His grandmother, LaQuisha Moore, described RJ as a bright, nurturing child who loved being a leader. She said he enjoyed drawing, building with Legos and Roblox, and had recently started third grade.
The family is now left grieving the loss of a child whose life and future were cut tragically short.
Y’all Know What sends our deepest condolences to Roland “RJ” McLain III’s family, friends and loved ones. We’re also praying for his younger brother as he continues to recover.
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