In a tragic incident that has shocked the local community, an eight-year-old girl was seriously injured and hospitalized after being involved in a hit-and-run collision with a van while riding her horse.

The incident occurred on Sunday at approximately 2:20 pm at Higher Treween, Altarnun, near Launceston, sparking an investigation by the Devon and Cornwall Police.

The collision, which involved a white Ford Transit van, led to severe injuries for the young girl who required an airlift to a nearby hospital to receive urgent medical treatment.

The horse, which the girl was riding, sustained injuries that were deemed unsustainable, leading on-site veterinarians to the difficult decision of euthanizing the animal.

Accompanying the young rider was a 12-year-old child who was leading the horse at the time.

Fortunately, the older child remained unscathed by the incident.

The authorities have taken swift action in response to the collision.

A 61-year-old man from Launceston was arrested shortly after on multiple charges, including failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic collision, failing to report the incident, dangerous driving, and driving while disqualified.

The suspect is currently held in police custody as investigations continue.

The incident has drawn responses from the community, with an appeal from the police urging anyone with information, particularly those possessing dashcam footage, to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.

Witnesses or individuals with relevant data are advised to contact Devon and Cornwall Police via their website or by calling 101, mentioning log 410 of 12 January 2025.

The case highlights significant concerns regarding road safety and the responsibilities of motorists, an issue of critical importance both locally and internationally.

The safety of rural road users, particularly those involving young children and animals, remains a focal point for both authorities and residents seeking to prevent further tragedies of this nature.