Driver hits woman, flees early New Year's Day in northeast Minneapolis, police say
MINNEAPOLIS — A woman is fighting for her life after she was struck by a hit-and-run driver early New Year's Day in northeast Minneapolis, police say.
Michaela Howk, 26, was walking home early New Year's Day morning when she was struck near University and Fourth avenues northeast in the St. Anthony West neighborhood.
Thursday afternoon she was extubated after suffering a broken pelvis, leg, a shattered kneecap and a brain bleed. But she's alive because of the help of strangers.
"I know accidents can happen you can't just leave somebody when they're not able to fend for themselves," Michaela said. "Just knowing that somebody could do that, and leave is heartbreaking."
Her mother Sheila is grateful her daughter has a second chance at life and is grateful for all that helped including a neighbor who sprang into action.
"To the lady that stood by her last night (Wednesday) we owe her everything. Finding her, siting with her, waiting until help came," Sheila Howk said holding back tears.
There's a long road to recovery for Howk, instead of starting her new job in the emergency room of Children's Hospital next week she'll be rehabbing at home.
Through it all she's thankful and hopeful the dangerous driver who hit her will be off the street soon.
An online fundraiser has been created to help alleviate her medical bills.
On Friday, Minneapolis police released an image of a vehicle in connection with the hit-and run.
Police say the driver of the vehicle may have information about the incident. Anyone who recognizes this vehicle is asked to email policetips@minneapolismn.gov, leave a voicemail at 612-673-5845 or call Crime Stoppers at call 1-800-222-8477.
