Woman ‘left for dead’ in KFC hit and run issues own plea for help
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A 53-year-old Ballina woman has issued her own public appeal for help to identify the driver of a vehicle that allegedly struck her and left her unconscious outside KFC on Kerr Street three weeks ago.
Speaking from her hospital bed, the woman said she could not understand how someone could allegedly hit a pedestrian and drive away.
Ballina News Daily knows the identity of the woman, but she has asked not to be publicly identified.
The incident happened about 6pm on Saturday, May 2, as the woman walked towards the fast-food outlet in light rain.
Her last clear memory was seeing headlights from a large vehicle.
“I don’t remember anything after that,” she said.
“I just can’t believe that anyone would run over a person and just leave them for dead.”
Sources say the woman appeared to be walking across marked lines on the roadway leading towards the KFC entrance when she was struck.
However, Ballina News Daily understands the markings may technically designate a no-standing zone rather than a formal pedestrian crossing.
Serious Injuries and Growing Frustration
The woman suffered extensive injuries, including a broken sternum, three broken vertebrae, broken ribs, internal bleeding and a severe knee injury that may require surgery.
She remains bedridden and unable to walk.
“The pain has been unlike anything I have ever experienced,” she said.
She now faces mounting bills with no income.
Despite the seriousness of the incident, no public appeal for information had been issued by police in the three weeks following the crash.
Ballina News Daily contacted NSW Police this week seeking details about the investigation and asking whether officers had reviewed security footage from cameras operating at the KFC restaurant or nearby.
This afternoon, a NSW Police spokesperson said they are looking to speak to the driver of a Silver 2001 Landcruiser with a large number of modifications.
Video evidence was now being reviewed and may soon be released publicly as part of a more detailed appeal for assistance.
Police are looking to speak to the driver of a Silver 2001 Toyota Landcruiser with a large number of modifications.
The woman said she hoped someone would come forward with information.
“If you have a heart, please just take yourself in and do the right thing,” she said.
“Imagine if it was themselves or one of their kids, or their mother or father, or a family member.
“Put themselves in my position.”
Grateful for Those Who Helped
The woman also paid tribute to the people who stopped to help her while she lay unconscious after the collision.
“There’s no words to explain how grateful I am that they did stay and do whatever they did for me,” she said.
“I’m just so grateful.”
Anyone with information, or who may be able to identify the vehicle, is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 and quote event number E89434187.
