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Hit-and-run driver seriously injures volunteer firefighter

Posted at 4:27 PM, Aug 19, 2019
and last updated 2019-08-20 23:35:02-04

TOWN OF LOCKPORT, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Niagara County Sheriff's Office needs your help finding the hit-and-run driver who injured a volunteer firefighter.

According to deputies, the incident happened Sunday night just before 10 o'clock. The Rapids Volunteer firefighter was directing traffic at the intersection of Tonawanda Creek and Minnick Roads in Lockport following an accident.

The firefighter was wearing a reflective vest, had a lighted wand, and a blue light illuminated on the side of his truck. A vehicle, described as a newer white pick-up , approached westbound on Tonawanda Creek Road. The vehicle slowed, but did not stop, striking the fireman causing serious injuries. The truck driver then drove away.

Deputies say the pick-up has black pin-striping that is approximately 1 1/2" wide that runs from the rear of the vehicle to the front, just above the door handle. The truck may have front end or side damage. Niagara County Undersheriff Michael Filicetti said the truck may be Dodge, Chevy or Ford make.

"We have a volunteer fireman here that's out here donating his time and talents to help other people and he gets hit by a vehicle and they leave the scene. That should bother people in this community," Undersheriff Filicetti said.

The firefighter is recovering from serious injuries at ECMC.

Anyone with information is asked to call 716-438-3327.