(El Cajon, CA) A 35-year-old Lakeside man was arrested on suspicion of a felony hit-and-run after a Ballantyne Street collision left a 12-year-old boy critically injured earlier this week, according to the El Cajon Police Department.
The crash occurred around 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 22, in the 300 block of Ballantyne Street, near East Park Avenue. Upon investigation, police learned Dani A. Korkis drove a white BMW X5 on the street. At some point, he struck the child, who sustained severe head injuries. Korkis had fled the scene by the time officers arrived, leaving debris scattered across the street.
The moment paramedics arrived, they rushed the boy to a nearby hospital, admitting him in critical condition. As of Friday, authorities said his vital signs were stable. Investigators used an automated license plate reader and other databases to identify the suspect vehicle. Authorities later located the vehicle at a business in Lakeside with damage consistent with the crash.
Korkis was arrested and booked into San Diego Central Jail on suspicion of the felony hit-and-run causing great bodily injury. He is being held on $50,000 bail and is scheduled for arraignment on Tuesday afternoon.
Perspective on the Ballantyne Street Collision
The Ballantyne Street collision has deeply affected the El Cajon community. Thanks to witness cooperation and police technology, investigators were able to identify the suspect vehicle and take swift action.
In cases like this, the Hit-and-Run Statute will be reviewed. It requires drivers involved in a collision that results in injury or death to immediately stop, provide identification, and render reasonable assistance. Leaving the scene is a felony offense that can result in years of imprisonment and significant fines.
Because the incident involved a pedestrian, California Vehicle Code 21950 also applies. This law mandates that drivers yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. This being the case in residential neighborhoods or areas where children are present.
Authorities continue to investigate the Ballantyne Street collision as the young victim recovers, with police emphasizing that community cooperation remains essential in ensuring justice for the child and his family.
Support for the Boy and His Family
For the family of the 12-year-old boy, this is a painful and uncertain time. You may contact the El Cajon Police Department’s Traffic Division for updates or to request a copy of the official report once it becomes available.
The San Diego County Victim Assistance Program offers counseling, financial aid, and resources to help families recover after major crashes. Consulting with a personal injury attorney may also help ensure medical expenses, rehabilitation needs, and long-term care for the victim and their family
