Suspect Arrested In Hit-And-Run That Injured Man Crossing Leonia Street In His Wheelchair

LEONIA, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- A New Jersey man was crossing a street in Leonia in his wheelchair when a car came out of nowhere, and struck him causing severe injuries.

Witnesses said the driver took off, but as CBS2's Meg Baker reported, just a short time ago police made an arrest in the case.

Yuki Sung lives off of Fort Lee Road in Leonia, and had just pulled into her driveway Monday around 10:48 a.m. when she witnessed what she called a horrific accident.

"I hear sound like trying to stop," she said. "He passed so quickly."

The driver of a sport-utility vehicle struck a 78-year-old man in his wheelchair on Leonia Ave.

Police said the hit-and-run driver was Thomas Malatesta, a Fort Lee resident.

While police were out looking for surveillance video of him, they said he pulled up in his 2016 Buick Encore SUV, the same one that left a front skid plat at the scene, according to authorities.

Police said the 78-year-old was well known for being out and about on his wheelchair in town, and crossing Fort Lee Road was part of his daily routine.

"We wave to each other all the time, that's what makes this case difficult is when you know somebody who is the victim," Leonia Chief of Police Thomas Rowe said.

Neighbors identified the victim as Fred Elfers. He lives a block away from where he was hit.

"He takes it all over town, there's never been a day that I haven't seen him strolling along," Olivia Puente said.

Elfers remained at the hospital with his wife at his side, Tuesday.

"Injuries when you're 78 years old are a lot tougher than when you are younger. He's in a lot of pain," Rowe said.

Elfers has seven broken ribs, a broken clavicle, and a broken hip. His wheelchair was completely destroyed.

Leonia police said Malatesta faces several charges. He has been releases and is expected in court later this month.