LYSANDER, N.Y. -- A 13-year-old child was hit by a car near the YMCA in Baldwinsville and died later at a Syracuse hospital, according to the New York State Police.
Authorities said the crash happened on River Road around 1 p.m. The driver of a minivan was headed north when she noticed two boys, walking along the shoulder of the road headed the same direction.
In a statement, state police say 13-year-old Lucas Delong and a 12-year-old friend were walking southbound when Lucas saw his cat following them. He picked the cat up and was returning it to the residence when he "quickly entered the northbound lane," according to police. Wendy Murray, 44, told police she tried to swerve, but she hit the teen when oncoming traffic prevented her from moving into the other lane.
Staff from the YMCA assisted at the scene when the boy was hit. The other boy was not hit.
No tickets have been issued, but the investigation is ongoing. Police say there is no indication that alcohol, speed or distracted driving contributed to the crash.
A memorial with a candle and bouquet of flowers marked the scene of the crash Tuesday evening.
The Baldwinsville Central School District posted a statement that reads in part: "It is with a heavy heart that we recognize the untimely passing of thirteen year old Ray Middle School student, Lucas DeLong ... The thoughts and prayers of the Baldwinsville school community are with Lucas' family and all involved in this tragedy. We have lost one of our own."
State police ask that any witnesses to the accident call investigator Tom Quilter at 315-638-8651 or 315-638-8200.