In a harrowing incident in Houston, Texas, a seventeen-year-old girl, Natasha Kooken, narrowly escaped death after being struck by a car while crossing Hillcroft Avenue. The incident took place on Monday around 2 p.m., right after Natasha disembarked from the Metro bus at the Hillcroft Avenue stop, a routine she followed daily after leaving school.

Crossing the Road: A Routine Turns Tragic

Natasha’s routine turned tragic when, while on the phone with her mother, who was waiting on the other side of the road, she was hit by a black four-door sedan with dark tinted windows. A vehicle from a side road unexpectedly accelerated towards her, leaving Natasha with severe injuries. Her mother, Ashley Thomas, witnessed the horrifying event, with Natasha being thrown about ten feet into the air and flipping multiple times before hitting the ground.

Traumatic Injuries and Terrifying Moments

The hit-and-run driver callously ignored the injured teenager, not stopping or looking back. Natasha suffered a broken femur, broken ankle, fractured hips, torn ligaments in both knees, and numerous bumps and bruises across her body. She is currently hospitalized at Memorial Hermann Hospital, unable to move independently. Doctors have already performed surgery on her femur, inserting a titanium rod.

Unraveling the Investigation

Houston Police are actively investigating the incident and seeking information from the public. They urge anyone who witnessed the accident or has video footage to submit anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers of Houston or call 713-222-TIPS (8477).

Natasha’s Resilience and Future Plans

Despite the trauma and physical challenges, Natasha remains grateful that her injuries are below the waist, allowing her to pursue her dreams. Expressing gratitude for the ability to use her arms and hands, she envisions attending college for sign language interpreting. This positive outlook stands in stark contrast to the hit-and-run driver’s heartless actions.

Urgent Call for Justice

The incident highlights the alarming issue of hit-and-run accidents, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and stricter measures to hold accountable those who flee the scene. As Natasha fights for her recovery, the community rallies behind her, hoping for justice to prevail in this unsettling case.

Seeking Justice for Natasha

Natasha Kooken’s near-fatal accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers pedestrians face and the callousness of hit-and-run drivers. As the investigation unfolds, the community anxiously awaits justice for Natasha and a renewed commitment to road safety.