Driver sought after construction worker critically hurt in SW Philly hit-and-run

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Police are searching for a driver who fled the scene after striking a construction worker in Southwest Philadelphia, leaving the victim in critical condition.

The crash happened around 7 a.m. Thursday on the 5800 block of Lindbergh Boulevard, according to officials.

Police said a 24-year-old man was standing in the bike lane, placing traffic cones for an active construction zone, when he was hit by a vehicle.

Investigators said the vehicle was traveling westbound and veered into the bike lane to bypass stopped traffic, striking the worker before continuing on without stopping.

Neighbors say the intersection has long been dangerous, with drivers frequently ignoring traffic laws.

Ellis Simms of Southwest Philadelphia said he regularly sees drivers cutting into the bike lane to avoid waiting at traffic lights.

"I seen it yesterday, they run into the bike lane because they can't wait for the light. They don't want to wait for the light to change. They shoot right through," he said.

A fence surrounding the construction site shows a church being built on the corner. Simms said construction has been ongoing for months, and conditions at the intersection have worsened during that time.

"We need to do something about that. I suggested cameras, that way somebody can be penalized," he said.

Officials said the vehicle involved is believed to be a light-colored Nissan sedan, possibly silver or white.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police.

The injured worker remains in critical condition.