FLINT -- By Jenna Lyons
Illegal drag racing is a common problem here in Flint, and now police say a local boy is suffering the consequences of this dangerous activity.
Police tell NBC25 the boy's father brought him there to watch late night illegal street races that commonly take place in the area.
Police say a hit and run driver struck a 13-year-old Burton boy near James P. Cole and E. Stewart Street early Saturday morning. Witnesses described the vehicle that hit him as he crossed the road as a 1990's model silver or gray Grand Am or Grand Prix.
The young boy involved in the accident was brought to Hurley Medical Center in Flint where he underwent surgery to repair injuries to his leg. At last check police say doctors listed the boy in serious condition.
Videos on Youtube show races on the very same road that the accident took place.
The only evidence in the daylight of the dangerous nights on James P. Cole Road is the burned rubber tracks staining the pavement.
Members of the Flint community are split in their opinions of drag racing. While some believe it causes nothing but harm, others think it keeps people out of trouble by giving them something to do at night.
Flint resident Antrawan Johnson has been attending street races in the area for years and says the activity is a benefit to the Flint community.
"It's taking away from criminal activities. All races, multi-races, blacks, whites, Mexicans, its helping us. The only thing I would say is organize it a little more," says Johnson.
Johnson says drag racing in Flint will continue on regardless of the law.
"This has been a part of history. Flint city, Buick city. Don't try to stop it, help it," says Johnson.
However, the accident that took place Saturday morning may point to greater issues of basic safety.
Flint resident Rayshawn Southall has attended many races and says he has watched both children and adults put themselves in harms way.
"It's dangerous. People get to drinking, and then they drive real fast. Certain kids out there shouldn't even be out that late."
Southall says he hopes nobody else gets hurt, and people realize this tradition needs to end.
