HAMPTON, VIRGINIA — A tragic early morning crash in Hampton has left a 1-year-old child dead and a teenage driver facing multiple criminal charges after authorities say the vehicle was being operated under the influence.
The incident, which occurred on a local freeway, has raised serious concerns about underage driving, impaired driving, and child safety restraints.
Crash Occurred After Vehicle Veered Off Roadway
According to authorities, the crash happened around 2:04 a.m. on March 23 when a 14-year-old girl was behind the wheel of a vehicle traveling on a freeway in Hampton.
Police say the teen lost control of the vehicle, veering off the right side of the roadway and striking a guardrail. The car then crossed back over lanes before crashing into a barrier on the left side of the freeway. The sequence of impacts caused severe damage to the vehicle and resulted in critical injuries to those inside.
Child Was Not Properly Restrained at Time of Crash
Investigators confirmed that a 1-year-old child was inside the vehicle and was not properly restrained during the crash…