By Nate Walsh
PALMER, Mass. (abc40) - A 12-year-old girl is in a coma but expected to survive after being struck by a car shortly after 1:30 p.m. at the intersection of Park and School streets Monday, according to police.
The driver of the vehicle, which was a 1997 Buick LeSabre, has been identified as John Damato, 83, of 2205 Boston Road, Wilbraham, according to police, who said he will not face any charges in connection with the incident. Police said witnesses reported to police the young girl ran out in front of Damato and speed was not a factor.
"She was running an errand for her mother. She wasn't paying attention and she ran out in front of the car and he hit her," said Police Patrolman Rudy Wilk.
Police said they had been in contact with the girl's mother, and was told she was listed in critical but stable condition Tuesday.
The State Police Accident Reconstruction Team was called to the area to investigate the crash, but police said witness statements have resulted in their decision not to pursue charges.
