U. Darby toddler hurt in hit-and-run

An Upper Darby toddler was in serious condition yesterday at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where she underwent surgery for injuries suffered when she was struck by a hit-and-run driver late Friday, authorities said.

Autumn Vang, 22 months, was struck at 11 p.m. as she crossed Marlborough Road to join her father, Leu Vang, who was working on a car with friends, said Upper Darby Police Superintendent Michael Chitwood.

The child was dragged about 15 feet by a dark-colored sport utility vehicle driving without lights. She suffered a broken jaw, fractured eye orbit, numerous abrasions, and other injuries.

Chitwood said Leu Vang had been holding his daughter's hand moments earlier and left her on the sidewalk, "thinking she would remain there." He then went to work on the car.

The area was well-illuminated with street lights and there were no other vehicles on the side of the street where Autumn Vang began crossing, Chitwood said.

Neighbors heard a thump and screams and came to the assistance of the child as her father got into a car to chase the hit-and-run driver.

But Leu Vang soon lost contact with the vehicle, which was described as a Ford Explorer or Excursion with tinted glass, Chitwood said.

"We're now reaching out to the public for help in finding the driver," he said.

Anyone with information is asked to call Upper Darby police at 610-734-7694.