Family of 14-year-old hit-and-run victim wants justice as son recovers

A hit-and-run driver is still out on the streets after hitting a 14-year-old boy, leaving him in the middle of the road in critical condition.

The crash happened on US-41 at Whistlers Cove Boulevard, just before 7 a.m. on Thursday.

Days later, Jamesly Malande is proven to be a fighter after several surgeries. Right now, his family wants the person responsible to come forward.

Jamesly is a Lely High School freshman and his sister is angry. “Hopefully we find the monster person that did this to him and put him in jail.”

The family shared recent videos of Jamesly, laughing and playing like any other kid. On this Labor Day, he’s not doing any of that, and instead, lying in a hospital bed.

He’s able to sit up, but barely able to speak, still recovering after being run over in a crosswalk on his way to school Thursday morning.

Jamesly’s father, Jean Malande, said, “Maybe 7:30, 8 o’clock, an officer comes and knocks on my door. I said yes, this is my son. They tell me he had an accident.”

His mother and father are grateful he’s alive and will walk again after undergoing two surgeries.

“I say thank you, God, and thank you, doctor, too. Thank you someone who helped in the road,” said Jamesly’s mother, Lucienne Malande.

Jamesly’s memories are foggy and he has a slight concussion. Before he can come home to his family, he’ll need physical therapy.

At the end of the day, they’re just happy he’s going to make it.

Crime Stoppers is offering up to $3,000 to the person who comes forward with information on the dark-colored, possibly black, pickup truck that hit Jamesly.

The crash happened just before 7 a.m., so if you saw anything, Crime Stoppers wants to know. Call them at (800) 780-8477 or send them information online through this form.