The father of a four-year old boy hit by a motorcyclist who left the scene says “all there is today is hope that he will recover.”
Ruhul Chowdhury told CTV News Toronto on Wednesday that his young son, Radiul, remains in a coma at SickKids Hospital in Toronto.
The boy was severely injured on Sunday when he ended up on the roadway near Victoria Park Avenue and Adair Road and was struck by a motorcyclist with two people aboard.
He suffered brain damage and numerous broken bones.
His father said he wants the city to know how much he appreciates the thoughts, prayers and well wishes.
"We wish to send our thanks to the entire community for the outpouring of support during this crisis. The response has been overwhelming and we can't express our gratitude enough," the family wrote in a statement released by SickKids on Wednesday afternoon.
"A very special thanks to Maple Leafs Sports Entertainment (MLSE), the Bangladeshi Canadian-Canadian Bangladeshi (BCCB) community and everyone who is keeping our son in their thoughts."
"Our focus is currently on the recovery of our son," the family continued. "We ask that you keep him in your prayers for a speedy recovery and are kindly requesting privacy at this time."
Chowdhury works at Real Sports Bar and Grill, which is owned by MLSE. Yesterday, the Toronto Raptors tweeted that the company will offer two tickets to the team’s first NBA Finals game on Thursday to the highest bidder, with all proceeds going to the Chowdhury family.
MLSE estimates the market value for the pair of tickets is approximately $4,500. As of Wednesday evening, the bidding had surpassed $10,000 for the Section 120 pair.
The bidding ends at noon on Thursday.
Toronto police said the motorcyclist left the scene after striking the boy. The passenger – a woman – got off the bike when it briefly slowed and left the area on foot.
A suspect identified as Darren Robert Dawson surrendered to police after an image was released of a motorcyclist wanted in connection with the hit-and-run.
Dawson was granted $25,000 bail yesterday. He has been charged with leaving the scene, driving without a proper licence and driving without proper insurance.
Sources tell CTV News Toronto Dawson is affiliated with the Hell’s Angels. However, police have not confirmed that detail.
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe has been set up for the Chowdhury family while they stay by the child’s hospital bedside.
