Driver charged in bicycle hit-and-run crash

FAIRBANKS —A 40-year-old Fairbanks driver suspected of crashing into a boy on a bicycle and not stopping has been formally charged.

Prosecutors charged Howard Martinez with leaving the scene of an injury accident without providing assistance, a felony.

He’s also charged with a misdemeanor count of leaving an accident scene.

Police took a call on the crash just after 8:30 a.m. Tuesday.

They said a boy riding a small bicycle to Ryan Middle School was struck by a sport utility vehicle on 15th Avenue.

Police said the SUV dragged the bike at least six blocks to 21st Avenue.

The boy was transported to Fairbanks Memorial Hospital. Police describe his injuries as “non-life-threatening.”

Police arrested Martinez later Tuesday. Online court documents do not list his attorney. He remained jailed Wednesday.

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