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Columbia University Student Injured In Hit-And-Run Crash In Morningside Heights

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- A search was under way late Monday for a hit-and-run driver who sources said critically injured a Columbia University student in Morningside Heights.

As CBS2's Scott Rapoport reported, dramatic surveillance video released by the NYPD shows the car about to strike the student just after midnight Monday morning.

"That's horrible, absolutely horrible," said Lindsey Neilson.

It happened near 115th Street and Riverside Drive. Police said the car barreled into the victim -- described as a 19-year-old Columbia student -- who was crossing the street in the crosswalk.

The video stops just before impact. Police said the driver left the scene of the accident in his car.

"What a shame," one man said. "What a shame."

"I know that people would be scared and probably immediately want to run, but it's not OK," said Jenny Rae Leroux. "Everyone should stop, and that should be a core value that we all have."

Police say the victim was taken Mount Sinai St. Luke's Hospital in critical condition, with severe injuries to his head and legs.

The vehicle is described as an older-model red sedan. Police said it may have damage to the front windshield on the passenger side.

Police were searching late Monday for the sedan and the driver behind the wheel.

Family and friends have set up a fundraiser for the victim.

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