RICH SQUARE – A Rich Square man is listed in fair condition at Pitt Memorial Hospital in Greenville following a hit-and-run here early yesterday (Wednesday) morning.

John Andrew Strickland Jr., 48, suffered multiple injuries after being struck by an unknown vehicle as he walked along East Jackson Street near the railroad crossing shortly past midnight.

According to Rich Square Police Chief Bo Roye, the victim was found lying in the westbound lane of Jackson Street (NC 305/561).

&uot;We were unable to determine in which direction Mr. Strickland was walking,&uot; reported Roye. &uot;All I can tell you is that he was found lying in the roadway.&uot;

Roye said he did not know the full extent of Strickland’s injuries.

&uot;We got word that he was to undergo surgery at Pitt for two broken legs and a fractured left hip,&uot; stated Roye.

Rich Square Police Officer Kevin Byrd is handling the investigation.

&uot;Kevin doesn’t have much to go on,&uot; stressed Chief Roye. &uot;There was no evidence at the scene of the hit-and-run that would lead to us to a possible make or model of the suspect vehicle.&uot;

Roye added that once the driver of the vehicle was located, he or she would face a charge of felony hit-and-run, a crime that is punishable of up to 25 months in jail.

Anyone with information concerning the incident is urged to contact the Rich Square Police Department at 539-2136.