It happened just before 10 p.m. in the 1200 block of N. Main Street.
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Authorities say the toddler was with his family at a restaurant when he ran from the parking lot, across a sidewalk, and into the street.
The boy's family ran after the child in an attempt to stop him, however, the 3-year-old was struck by an oncoming vehicle.
The driver of the car, an unidentified man, was not injured and stopped after the accident.
Police said a nearby officer was waved down and did CPR before EMS arrived.
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The boy was taken to WakeMed Raleigh and is currently in critical condition.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing.