Police searching for driver who hit, killed toddler

Car involved in hit-and-run found, driver on the loose

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Police are looking for a driver who hit and killed a 2-year-old girl Sunday night and took off.

Janya Solomon

Police say someone driving through the Harold House apartment complex on Ring Lane -- near the intersection of Philips Highway and Emerson Street -- hit Janya Solomon around 5:30 p.m. Sunday.  After striking the victim, the driver exited the vehicle.

The passenger moved to the driver seat and began to drive away. The original driver got back into the car before fleeing the scene. The vehicle was later found abandoned at Leigh Meadows Apartments on Sunbeam Road.

"We have a couple of people who saw at least part of this. We believe there's more people. Give us as much information as they can give us so we can solve this," said Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Detective J.D. Gregory.

Family and friends set up a makeshift memorial in front of the toddler's apartment where she was hit and killed.

Friends and family set up a makeshift memorial at the site of the crash in honor of Janya.

People who live in the complex hope the person is found and held accountable soon.

"I don't know, it's unexplainable. Its just, I feel sorry for the parents. I hope they catch the person who did it because whoever did it, they deserve to get caught," said neighbor Carlos Lawrence.  "It's always sad when a child gets hurt or killed. Even with the kidnapping thing. We've got to keep a close eye on our kids. Very close eye."

Channel 4's crime and safety expert, Ken Jefferson, says this person could be facing a vehicular homicide charge because they left the scene.

Anyone who has any information in regards to the identity or location the driver or passenger of the suspect vehicle is asked to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office at 904-630-0500 or email JSOCrimeTips@jaxsheriff.org. To remain anonymous and receive a possible reward, contact Crime Stoppers at 866-845-TIPS.