Arrest made in hit-and-run death of 9-year-old boy in Hanover Township

HANOVER TWP. Pa. (WPVI) -- Police have made an arrest in the hit-and-run death of a 9-year-old boy in Northampton County.

The suspect is identified as 22-year-old Royce Atkins of Kathi Drive in Hanover Township.

Atkins was charged with an accident involving personal injury or death, a felony with a maximum of up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

Police say they received over 100 tips since the fatal hit-and-run accident that occurred last Friday around 6:30 p.m. on Schoenersville Road in Hanover Township

Police say Atkins confessed during an interview with detectives Monday morning.

"Atkins had admitted to striking the boy and leaving the scene," Colonial Regional Police Chief Roy Seiple said.

Police say 9-year-old Darious Condash along with a cousin and a friend had just purchased candy from a convenience store when they attempted to cross the road.

It's believed the fourth grader was picking up a piece of candy he dropped when he was struck.

He was rushed to a nearby hospital where he later died.

An anonymous tipster led police to Atkins. He became suspicious after noticing heavy damage to the front of Atkins' car.

Police do not believe drugs or alcohol were involved and they say Atkins offered no explanation as to why he did not stop and render aid.

"He was unsure as to what if anything he hit," Seiple said.

Police say Darious' family is relieved, but still grieving.

"It was a little bit of closure for them," Seiple said.

On Sunday, Darious' youth football team the Little Huskies played their championship game in honor of their teammate.

"There's a big empty space with us because Darious isn't here anymore," said teammate and cousin Yacinda Gonzalaez.

"We're playing with a purpose today. Win or lose, we're champions," head football coordinator Mike Beck said.

Atkins is being held in lieu of $50,000 bail.