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Grand Island hit-and-run victim remains in coma

Posted at 4:51 PM, Jun 29, 2017
and last updated 2017-06-29 20:28:26-04

The Grand Island woman severely injured in a hit-and-run continues to fight for her life at Erie County Medical Center. 

Dana Papaj, 53, was walking her dog along side East River Road, between Whitehaven Road and Riverwoods Drive, when a dark colored pick-up truck struck her. Reportedly, the truck slowed down, but kept going. 

Residential surveillance footage gave investigators leads on the case, but still no arrests. New York State Police have confiscated a pick-up truck registered to a correctional officer. 7 Eyewitness News reached out to the officer's attorney, Barry Covert for comment. He said he's praying and hoping Papaj fully recovers. However, he declined to answer any questions regarding the case. 

The Papaj Family's attorney, Steven M. Cohen, said the 53-year-old has been moved from the intensive care unit to a recovery room. 

Her husband and children are praying and hoping for the best. Test results show she has extensive brain damage. Papaj's daughter gave birth just five days before she was hit. Cohen said the family is dealing with a lot of different emotions. He commends the New York State Police and Erie County District Attorney's Office for all their work on this case. 

A Facebook Fundraiser Page has been setup for Dana Papaj at https://www.facebook.com/melissagraeff262

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call New York State Police.