8-year-old girl hospitalized after being struck by vehicle

An 8-year-old girl was hospitalized with major injuries after she was struck by a vehicle while chasing a ball into the street, police said.

Sheriff's deputies responded at 3:20 p.m. Tuesday to the area of Stillwater Drive and Halcyon Drive in Menife, according to a news release. Fire department personnel also responded to the scene. The investigation revealed that a motorist was driving west on Stillwater Drive when the girl ran into the street and struck the side of the passing vehicle. The driver stopped to render aid to the girl until first responders arrived.

Stillwater Drive was shut down for two hours during the investigation. Alcohol does not appear to be a factor and the driver was not found to have committed any traffic violations.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Officer Fraley of the Menifee Police Traffic Division at 951-210-1000.