A 9-year-old boy recovering from a serious crash in a school zone last year received a special gift from the California Highway Patrol and a local supporter, CHP Madera said in a social media post.

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Axel Hernandez Franco, then 8, was struck by a speeding vehicle on Sept. 19, 2023, while crossing Ellis Street to reach Liberty Charter School, formerly known as Ezequiel Tayofa Alvarado Academy.

The crash, which occurred around 7:20 a.m., left Axel with major injuries.

Authorities later determined that both the driver and Axel, who ran outside the crossing guard’s area without stopping to look both ways, were at fault.

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After undergoing multiple surgeries and continuing physical therapy, Axel is now 9 and in good spirits, authorities said.

CHP Madera, with support from Midland Tractor Company and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety, Education, Enforcement, and Awareness Program grant, presented Axel with a John Deere bicycle, a helmet, and safety accessories.

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The gift was accompanied by bicycle and pedestrian safety training for Axel and his mother. Axel also received a commemorative CHP patch.

The CHP reminds drivers to use extra caution in school zones, where children’s behavior can be unpredictable, and to slow down and remain distraction-free in areas with high pedestrian activity.

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