12-year-old boy seriously injured in Moore County hit-and-run; NCSHP asks for help finding driver

MOORE COUNTY, N.C. (WTVD) -- The North Carolina Highway Patrol said a 12-year-old boy was seriously injured when he was struck by a driver who left the scene.

NCSHP said the hit-and-run happened Tuesday around 9 p.m. on Spies Road near the Montgomery County line.

The boy, identified as Tyler Mabe, was walking in the road when he was hit by a driver possibly in a silver car. Troopers said they believe one other person may have been in the car when the crash happened. The driver left the scene heading west toward Montgomery County.

Authorities said the suspect vehicle could have front right damage and is possibly a Toyota or Honda.

Mabe's grandmother Christine Goins said Tyler sneaked out to spend time with a 10-year-old friend who lives nearby. His friend was riding his bike while Tyler was walking in the road beside him when he was struck.

"He's very sweet. He's very sweet and loving. He gets along with everybody. He's just outgoing like I said. He just loves life," Goins said.

Tyler was flown to UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill with serious injuries. His aunt Phyllis Dunn told ABC11 that he has head lacerations, a cut on his leg, swelling on his brain, as well as a broken pelvis, hip, sternum, and breast plate.

"I just so wish to God there was something I could do for him to make him feel better," Dunn said. "But there's nothing I can do. It's in God's hands. It's all in God's hands and anybody watching, I want to put him in their prayers. Get everybody that you know to pray for him."

Dunn said Tyler is in an induced coma.

Anyone with information that could help with the investigation is asked to call the State Highway Patrol by dialing *HP(47) on their cell phones or call the Moore County State Highway Patrol office during business hours at (910) 728-4488.