The driver of a black SUV was taken into custody overnight in Newark, according to an official with knowledge of the case Watch video
UPDATE: Newark couple arrested in West New York hit-and-run
WEST NEW YORK -- The suspected driver of an SUV that struck and killed a 7-year-old girl as she crossed the street on the way to school Monday morning was arrested overnight, according to an official with knowledge of the situation.
"They got the guy," said the official, who asked not to be identified because he had not been authorized to make the announcement.
The official said the driver was taken into custody in Newark sometime before 1 a.m. by the West New York Police, which had been investigating the case with the Hudson County Sheriff's Office. The official did not identify the driver.
Authorities are expected to announce the arrest later on Tuesday.
Authorities said Sheyla Pichardo was struck and killed Monday morning by the driver of the SUV as she and her mother crossed VanBuren Place at 61st Street on their way to School No. 1, where Sheyla was in first grade.
Her mother, Yeime Vital, 32, was also struck by the SUV, and was taken to Palisades Medical Center for treatment of unspecified injuries.
Authorities had said the driver, described Monday as a white male, possibly Latino, in his 30s, sped away from the scene.
Parents, children and others gathered Monday afternoon around the intersection, where a makeshift memorial of votive candles and plush toys had been set up.
Steve Strunsky may be reached at sstrunsky@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @SteveStrunsky. Find NJ.com on Facebook.