Full Notification

On February 13, 2024 around 6:25PM, Novato Police Officers responded to the report of two collisions in the areas of Center Road at Holstrom Circle and Center Road at Laurie Drive. The distance between the two locations is approximately 230 yards (.13 miles) apart. Upon arrival, NPD officers located and treated two 15-year-old male teenagers who had been struck by a vehicle while riding mountain bikes. Additional officers located the driver, who had collided (head-on) with a Ford F-150 pickup on Center Road at Laurie Drive, immediately after the first collision.
 
Statements from those involved reported that the vehicle was travelling west on Center Road before hitting two bicyclists. The driver did not stop after the first collision and continued west on Center Road, subsequently colliding head-on with a Ford pickup. Both bicyclists were treated on site by the Novato Fire Protection District paramedics. One victim was released to a parent and the other was transported to the hospital with significant injuries. The occupants of the F-150 were both transported to the hospital with minor injuries. We are thankful that everyone is expected to survive the collision.
 
We would like to thank our partners at the Novato Fire Protection District for their assistance in providing medical aide to all parties involved. The driver was evaluated for impairment at the scene by a Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) and was arrested for Felony Hit & Run causing injury (20001 CVC) as well as Driving Under the Influence of prescribed medication (23152(f) CVC). The details of both collisions are still under investigation and due to the ongoing nature of this investigation, the driver’s name will not be released at this time.
 
If you were a witness to these collisions or have any additional information, please give us a call anytime, day (415-897-4361) or night (415-899-1122) and reference case #NP24-0497.
 
This is a reminder of the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (even prescription medication). Not everyone realizes that many legally obtained and commonly used OTC or prescription drugs can affect a person’s ability to drive safely. Driving under the influence can result in traffic collisions, causing injury or even death.
 
Driver Safety Tips:

• If you have ingested an impairing substance, such as prescription drugs, sleep medication, marijuana, or any illegal drug, do not drive.
• Know someone who has ingested an impairing substance? Do not let them get behind the wheel.
• Passengers should never ride with an impaired driver. If you think a driver may be impaired, do not get in the car.
• If you’re hosting a party, make sure everyone has a sober ride home.
• Always wear your seat belt. It’s your best defense against impaired drivers.
• Use your community’s sober ride program.
• If you see an impaired driver, call law enforcement.