A woman walking a dog was struck from behind and seriously hurt by a car allegedly driven by two young brothers, ages 4 and 7. The incident reportedly happened on Thursday, August 6, in Oakland, California, according to ABC7 News. The family of the woman, Kiara Bowling, says that "she is still in critical condition." Per the outlet, a white sedan was traveling at a high rate of speed on 35th Avenue. Then the vehicle allegedly hit Bowling. Said one witness, Lavelle Shah-Marquis, "It was loud. I pray that she's okay, but it was bad, it was bad."
Videos by Wide Open Country
The two boys were also hurt. According to their uncle, the younger one has a concussion. The older child fractured both of his legs. They are in the hospital.
Her Cousin Asked for Prayers
Kiara Bowling's cousin, Princess Davis, implored the public to pray for her as she struggles to recover. Her injuries are evidently severe. "I just found out she has blood on her brain," Davis shared. She has to probably get two surgeries."
Bowling's aunt described her as "fighting for her life," in the words of the outlet. In addition to the brain bleed, she allegedly sustained facial fractures. Her injures apparently will necessitate "multiple surgeries."
Bowling's Future Was Promising
Per the outlet, Kiara Bowling is a hard-working and successful young woman in her 30s. She is Miss California Regency International 2026. With an eye toward getting her JD and being a lawyer, Bowling completed a summer program at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut.
Princess Davis deeply lamented what reportedly took place when the car crashed. Davis spoke with obvious anguish about what Kiara Bowling, her cousin, is now enduring. "She went to school, she was out helping the community, she is a model. She does a lot for this community. My cousin didn't deserve this. I hate that this happened to her."
The Children Allegedly Took the Car Keys While Their Parents Slept
Per the outlet, Oakland police say that the youngsters allegedly took their parents' car while they slept. As for who will be held responsible or accountable, the unique nature of the circumstances makes that hard to guess at this point.
One legal expert, Steven Clark, said, "I've never seen anything like this. It's just such a one off. The law doesn't have an exact remedy for this...[W]e're not going to put a seven-year-old in juvenile hall." Clark indicated that a civil case might possibly be brought. He does not anticipate criminal charges.
However, the sheer human tragedy of the situation is inescapable. A child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr. Shivani Chmura, suggested counseling for the boys. "My heart goes out to the whole situation. It's tragic."
A GoFundMe was established for Kiara Bowling. It states that "she is facing a lifelong recovery...." As of Monday afternoon, $73,415 was raised. The goal is $90,000.
