Hit-and-run driver accused of hitting panhandler

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The search is on for a runaway driver after a hit-and-run that left a victim with a serious leg injury.

Around 8:45 p.m. on Monday, the driver of a silver Mercedes SUV struck a 38-year-old man in the 3100 block of Fountainview.

Some of the pictures eyewitness and good Samaritan Mark Hussey shot at the scene are too graphic to post, but the victim's leg was bleeding and bystanders were trying to help him.

Police said the victim, 38-year-old Stephen Bowes, and the driver of the Mercedes exchanged words. The driver then went up over the median, striking Bowes with his vehicle before getting out, saying something else to Bowes and driving off, according to investigators.

"There was a lot of action, and I heard some yelling going on. It looked like the SUV ran over the curb and drove over his leg," said Hussey.

Hussey said Bowes may have struck the vehicle with his hand first, but he never expected what he witnessed next.

"It's heartless. That's a human being. Whether he was panhandling and did strike his car, I understand it's expensive. It's a man's life, he could have killed him," said Hussey.

Witnesses at the scene tied a belt around Bowes' leg before he was taken to the hospital.

"He needs to turn himself in, he's going to be found one way or another," said Hussey.

HPD is investigating the case and says anyone with information should call the Hit-and-Run Division at 713-247-4065.

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