Novato Police Department patrol officers responded to a report of a 5-year-old boy struck by a vehicle while crossing Hutchins Way, a residential area near Pacheco Hill in the Hamilton district.

The accident took place at 5:17 p.m. on Monday evening near Head Start Bay Vista, when the boy was hit by an older-model, dark colored minivan. Witnesses say the van was driven by a black adult male, accompanied by a black woman passenger.

The suspect vehicle had been driven away from the scene prior to NPD arrival. Prior to fleeing the scene, the suspect failed to identify himself, failed to provide his vehicle registration information, and failed to render reasonable assistance to the victim as required by the California Vehicle Code.

Novato Fire Protection District personnel transported the victim to Marin General Hospital, where he was treated and released for minor injuries.

Several witnesses to the incident were interviewed, and possible suspect information was developed. Investigation into this matter is continuing.