Two Augustana students were hit by a vehicle crossing 7th avenue on Thursday, Jan. 19, at about 5:30 p.m.
First-year student Ericka Contreras confirmed that she is in stable condition at UnityPoint Health Trinity Medical Center in Rock Island. A staff member at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois, confirmed that first-year student Tyler Joy is in “fair condition.”
First-year student Samantha Flipp witnessed the incident as it happened and was one of the first to go on police record as an eyewitness.
“I was just walking out of choir and heard a loud impact noise first. I saw one of the girls go over the hood of the car and slid down the street,” Flipp said. “I quickly crossed the street to see if everyone was okay and there were two girls who were hit. There were a few other people who were with them who called the police when it happened.”
Flipp said that she and a group of people stayed with the students while the police were on their way. One student could not move her leg, Flipp said, and another student required support to walk up from the side of the road where she landed. The paramedics came within 10 minutes and transported both students to the hospital.
According to a student who was with both struck students, who asked not to be identified, they were coming from choir rehearsal. Contreras reportedly rolled when she was hit, while Joy’s impact broke the car’s windshield. Both students were walking on the crosswalk when they were hit. Joy landed on the grass and Contreras landed on the side of the road near the car.
The Rock Island Police Department did not release any information about the vehicle or the driver. The incident is still under investigation.
“The students were admitted to a local hospital, where they are now in stable condition. Representatives at the hospital are waiting for family who will soon arrive,” Augustana senior communications director Sam Schlouch said.
UnityPoint confirmed that Contreras is currently in the emergency room receiving treatment. OFS Saint Francis confirmed that Joy is receiving further medical treatment for her broken leg.
Dean of Students Evelyn Campbell sent an email to students urging them to look after each other. There were counseling services in Westerlin Residence Hall until 9 p.m. available for students who wanted to talk about the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the students who were involved. We wish them a speedy recovery,” Schlouch said.
According to Schlouch, the Rock Island Police Department and the Rock Island Fire Department were on scene, as well as Augustana Public Safety.
For students who need additional support overnight, contact a member of the Residential Life staff or Public Safety.