Driver in Lowell hit-and-run accident cited

LOWELL, Mass. -- The driver suspected in Monday’s hit-and-run accident in Lowell could be facing numerous charges.

The driver, 17-year-old Michelle Medeiros, allegedly struck and injured 12-year-old Kelvin Savanhmixay Monday at the crosswalk on on Riverside Street. She was cited on Thursday for leaving the scene of an accident, which is only a misdemeanor in Massachusetts.

Medeiros, a senior at Methuen High School, was allegedly dropping off an application for school at UMass Lowell. After the trip to Lowell, she was late to a hair dresser appointment in Lawrence and was rushing there.

She filed a false police report in Lawrence, claiming her car was damaged while parked at the hair salon. She could be charged with filing a false police report.

The car was then taken to Best Auto Body in Methuen by her father, who may be charged with being an accessory after the fact.

Medeiros told 7News that she’s sorry for the accident.

“I hope he’s doing okay. He’s only 12, and he deserves the best. It was just a true accident,” said Medeiros.

The boy's mother said her son is upset.

"He sometimes crying in his sleep. He's afraid that he's not going to be the same because, you know, he's seen his face," said Doa Savanhmixay, the victim's mother.

Savanhmixay is still in the hospital, but is expected to make a full recovery.

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