Driver leaves woman severely injured after hit-and-run in Ecorse

Sarah Diaz recovering from 25 broken bones, collapsed lung

ECORSE, Mich. – A woman is fighting for her life Wednesday after being struck by a hit-and-run driver in Ecorse.

Sarah Diaz's family has spent the past 24 hours at Beaumont Hospital by her side. They're hoping for signs of improvement, but she is still in critical condition with 25 broken bones.

The 21-year-old is in the intensive care unit, while the driver who struck her is still on the loose.

"She has a tough road ahead of her, and we'd like to help her," said Brayden Diaz, her brother.

Diaz is preparing for her third surgery in a matter of hours since she was struck by a driver as she left her boyfriend's house in Ecorse early Tuesday morning. Someone ran her over as she tried to cross High Street at Salliotte Road, police said.

"She's young, and these are some pretty significant injuries," Brayden Diaz said.

Her boyfriend had just gone back inside the house before she was hit.

"It's a bad time whenever it happens, but really at this time of the year it makes it very difficult for the family," Brayden Diaz said

Diaz was left with 25 broken bones and a collapsed lung. A piece of her ear was ripped, and she's unable to walk.

"She really has a long way to go as far as (being able to walk)," Brayden Diaz said.

Ecorse police said several people besides the boyfriend stayed by her side, but investigators don't have much information about the driver. Brayden Diaz said he hopes the driver realizes the crime happened when he or she didn't stop.

"I'm mad, but I believe in forgiveness," Brayden Diaz said. "I think, especially at this time of year, we're called to forgive."

As his sister fights toward recovery, family members said they know the driver didn't mean to hurt her. But they believe now is the time to come forward.

"I ask if anyone has knowledge, or if someone may have done this, it's never too late to do the right thing," Brayden Diaz said. "Please help the family."

Ecorse police are searching for a silver or gray SUV, possible a Jeep, with heavy front-end damage.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Ecorse Police Department at 313-381-0900.


About the Authors:

Derick is the Lead Digital Editor for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.