Police: 11-Year-Old Girl Killed by Hit-and-Run Driver in Smithtown

NEW YORK (AP/ 1010 WINS)  -- The mother of an 11-year-old Long Island girl, who police say was struck and killed Tuesday night in a hit-and-run, is asking the driver of the vehicle to surrender.

Mona Rivera Reports

Fifth grader Courtney Sipes was crossing the street with her mother and brother just east of Lawrence Avenue around 7 p.m. when she was struck by a white pickup truck or SUV, police say.

"I have no idea how anybody could sleep at night or have such disregard for human life to not want to bring closure to our family," Sipes' mother, Lavena, said.

Sipes, who plays trumpet and guitar, was mowed down outside a music center.

The vehicle likely sustained front-end damage, police say.

Sipes was taken to St. Catherine of Siena Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Detectives are asking anyone who may have information to call the Fourth Squad at 631-854-8452; or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS. All calls will be kept confidentlial.

The investigation is continuing.

Photo/Family Handout