Teen seriously hurt in Acton hit-and-run returns home after 7 weeks in hospital
ACTON – An Acton teenager seriously injured in a hit-and-run crash last month was able to leave the hospital and return home on Wednesday.
Police flipped on the lights and sirens making sure 13-year-old Junior Soto got a warm welcome home from the hospital. "I feel like a celebrity almost," Junior said.
After spending nearly two months at Spaulding Rehab, the Acton teen is still recovering from a hit-and-run crash that nearly killed him in November.
"Most people aren't blessed to be alive after getting hit by a car like that. I'm just very happy and stuff that I'm actually like here," Junior said.
Grateful to be recovering at home with family just in time for Christmas, because seven weeks ago, Junior couldn't hear, talk, or walk on his own.
"I just thank God for everything," Junior's mother said. "I feel like we got lucky."
His mother is demanding justice after her son was left for dead in a crosswalk. Police identified the driver as an 85-year-old Maynard woman, charging her with reckless driving and leaving the scene of an accident.
"She still has to pay for the crime she committed," said family friend Madeline Cruz. "She didn't just hit him and then call the cops. She escaped, hid her car and then pretended like nothing happened."
Junior said he doesn't want to think too much about the crash. He's focused on his recovery and getting back on the basketball court. And like most teenagers, he's most excited about opening presents, hoping there's a PlayStation under the tree.
"To see Junior today talking and smiling, happy to be home with his family for Christmas, it doesn't get much better," said Acton Deputy Police Chief James Cogan.
