Family of child struck in southeast Austin hit and run pleads driver to come forward

AUSTIN, Texas (FOX 7 Austin) - The family of a five-year-old struck in a hit and run in southeast Austin is calling for the driver to come forward.

Illianna Martinez and her family were traveling down Palo Blanco in southeast Austin March 21 when they came to the intersection of Teri Road. According to a police report, when Illianna's parents attempted to enter the intersection, they were struck by a black pickup truck.

The driver and a passenger of the truck ran from the scene. Illianna was rushed to the hospital where she remains in critical condition ten days later.

Illianna’s aunt Lynda Perez said the family has spent every day by her hospital bedside.

"It has been a nightmare; we are in a living nightmare," Perez said. "We are devastated since the day of the accident we have not been able to sleep, eat properly."

Police on scene said Illianna suffered from multiple lacerations and broken bones. Illianna's family did not want to release details about her condition but says their lives have been changed forever.

Perez described her niece as lively.

"Illianna was bubbly, full of life. She loved to sing, she loved to dance, she loved Spanish songs," Perez said.

Perez expressed concern over progress made in the case as the family says they have not received an update from police since the accident.

"I do feel like we've been put on the back burner and we've had several unsuccessful attempts at reaching the police department with no return phone calls. We've been relentless in our attempts and it's disheartening," Perez said.

The family prays the public will help identify the driver or the driver who fled the scene will turn themselves in.

"We just want them to find it in their heart to come forward and face whatever consequences there are for Illianna's sake," said Perez.

If anyone has any information regarding this case, they are asked to call the Austin Police Department’s tip line at 512-472-TIPS.