Hit-and-run victim's family makes public plea

MIAMI (WSVN) -- A family traveled to South Florida from Canada to make a desperate plea for help in locating a hit-and-run driver.

"Olivier has two other brothers that are older than him, and it's very difficult for them because they are in Quebec City," said Olivier Lamontagne's mother, Lise Parent. "It's necessary that that driver be caught. This is a picture of my son with his big smile."

Parent and her husband made the public plea Wednesday afternoon at the Miami Police Department.

Lamontagne, who was visiting South Florida from Quebec, Canada, remains in extremely critical condition. According to doctors, the 21-year-old's condition may not improve. "Now, in my mind, someone killed my son," said Parent. "I can't believe now my son tomorrow, probably, he will die."

Miami Police officers responded to the scene of the accident near Northwest Miami Court and 79th Street just before 11 p.m., Monday. According to authorities, Lamontagne, was attempting to walk across 79th Street when he was struck by a white sedan traveling at a high rate of speed.

According to witnesses, Lamontagne was walking from a neighborhood market to the apartment building where he was staying. Police said, the driver of the white sedan did not stop after striking Lamontagne and fled the scene.

Police said, the vehicle responsible may be a Ford Taurus or Buick bearing a partial tag of AJE41. According to Miami Police, the car should have extensive windshield, front and roof damage.

If you have any information on the whereabouts of the hit-and-run driver or this vehicle, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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