4-Year-Old Girl Injured in Hit-and-Run Crash on Mesa Drive

MESA, AZ (August 11, 2022) – Sunday afternoon, Bea Freeman was seriously injured following a hit-and-run crash near Main Street.

The incident happened around 4:00 p.m., near the intersection of Main Street and Lesueur.

According to investigators, Freeman was crossing the road with her family when she ran into a lane where she was struck by a silver 2014 Hyundai Sonata. The driver, 48-year-old Veronica Laprada, slowed down near the scene but ended up leaving.

Emergency crews arrived at the scene and transported Freeman to a local hospital for further treatment of injuries. She is reported to be in stable condition.

Police later located and arrested Laprada at her apartment. Officers booked and charged her with failing to remain at the scene of a serious physical injury collision.

Meanwhile, Freeman’s family has set up a GoFundMe to support the costs of her recovery.

If you’re behind the wheel, pay full attention to the road and your surroundings. Do not engage in any non-driving activity, which creates a potential distraction. You can help prevent accidents by following all traffic laws and observing safety precautions. By doing so, you can help keep yourself and others around you safe.


When injured in a pedestrian accident, it is vital to have solid legal representation on your side. Reach out to the personal injury or wrongful death attorneys at Sweet James today. With 20 years of experience in the field, they know what it takes to help you win your case. Their team understands what you are going through, and they are here to help you seek justice and compensation. Call their office at (800) 975-3435 for a free and confidential case evaluation. You can reach them 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat. Click here to request a police report.

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