A young boy died just one day after his birthday while trying to save his sister from an oncoming vehicle.
13-year-old Tyler Phillips from Medford, New York, was on a bike lane with his sister, who is also 13, in Coram when an SUV struck the boy just moments after he pushed his sibling out of the way and saved her life.
The incident took place on October 12 at 7.30 pm while the two siblings, who had reportedly been living in a shelter for a year, were on their way home.
After Tyler was struck by the vehicle, the driver of the SUV fled the scene and left the dying boy alone with his distraught sister.
Three days later, Tyler was pronounced dead as a result of the severe injuries he sustained in the collision.
“They tried to resuscitate him and he was gone for 30 minutes. His vertebrate and his skull got separated, and he’s got no brain function. He’s gone,” Tyler’s mom, Desari Mac, recalled in an interview with NBC.
Meanwhile, Tyler’s sister Krystal branded her brother as her hero as she admitted she wouldn’t be alive if he hadn’t been there to push her out of harm’s way.
“He saved my life. He was a hero. He will always be a hero,” the girl said as she broke into tears.
According to the officials, it is believed that the car involved in the incident was an older model of Chevrolet Equinox. The SUV was likely made between 2005 and 2009 and was dark-colored.
The hunt for the suspect continues and the police have already offered a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to arrest.
“While we are thankful that Krystal is expected to survive, we are heartbroken to learn of Tyler’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Tyler’s family and friends at this time,” officials at William Paca Middle School, the school Tyler attended, said.
The Longwood Central School District added: “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tyler and Krystal’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
Our thoughts are with Tyler’s family and friends during this tragic time.
Recommended Video For You!
Man Opens Car Door While In Automatic Car Wash To Fix Wipers, But Brush Returns And Slams Door In Opposite Direction