Hospital discharges motorist beaten up after hitting child

Photo / File

A Hamilton driver who was dragged out of a car and beaten by people after he hit a 1-year-old child has been discharged from hospital.

Waikato Hospital also yesterday confirmed the toddler was also discharged after being hit by a silver car being driven by the man on Spenser Rd, Enderley.

Hamilton city area commander Inspector Greg Nicholls said the man was assaulted after his vehicle hit the 1-year-old boy, who was chasing his older sister and ran out in front of the car.

"The driver has stopped at the scene but was dragged from his vehicle by a number of people and seriously assaulted. He has then fled to a nearby address."

Mr Nicholls said the child suffered superficial injuries and was taken to hospital for overnight observation.

Witnesses of the incident did not want to talk about what happened, while neighbours said they didn't see much as and it was dark.

Mr Nicholls said the driver did the right thing by stopping, but suffered serious injuries as a result.

Police slammed the actions of people who attacked the driver.

"Such behaviour will not be tolerated. A driver is obliged to stop and ascertain any injuries. If people take matters into their hands then they will be held to account."