Dallas, TX – A 13-year-old boy remains hospitalized with severe injuries after a hit-and-run in the Red Bird area. The suspect, 46-year-old Jerome Walker, initially told police he thought he hit a construction sign—a claim that authorities say is completely false.
The incident occurred Sunday evening as Bradley Daniels Jr. and his friends attempted to cross Wheatland Road near Friendship Baptist Church to avoid a dog. That’s when Walker’s tan Dodge pickup struck the boy before he drove away from the scene.
How Police Tracked the Suspect
Dallas police reviewed Flock camera footage in the area, ultimately identifying Walker’s vehicle. When questioned, Walker admitted he was driving the truck but insisted he believed he struck a sign. He later returned to the scene to take a photo of the supposed sign for an insurance claim but left immediately upon spotting first responders—allegedly because he did not have a valid driver’s license.
However, investigators found no evidence of a damaged sign, and Walker’s truck showed clear damage consistent with hitting a child.
Family’s Emotional Plea
Bradley Jr. suffered a fractured skull, brain bleeding, and a severely injured foot. He is currently recovering at Children’s Hospital, where his parents, Bradley Daniels Sr. and Kelisha Gichuki, have remained by his side.
“As soon as you hit something, natural instinct should tell you to check,” said Bradley Sr. “As an adult, you would get out and check your vehicle anyways.”
“You should’ve stopped,” Gichuki added. “You should’ve been paying attention to the road.”
Charges and What’s Next
Walker has been charged with collision involving serious bodily injury, with his bond set at $25,000. Police have not disclosed why he was driving without a valid license.
For now, Bradley Jr.’s parents are focused on their son’s recovery. “We’ve been crying our eyes out and praying every day,” Bradley Sr. said. “We’re just thankful he’s responding the way he is.”
