Butler

‘Praying for My Life': Woman Hit by Dump Truck in DC Still in Hospital After 8 Surgeries

The driver accused of hitting a woman and dragging her for more than 60 feet in Northeast D.C. last month has yet to face charges in the crash.

Bianca Butler was walking down South Dakota Avenue NE on July 11 and trying to cross the street when 62-year-old Ismael Alvarez allegedly struck her.

"I didn't know what to do. I was praying for my life, almost about to die," Butler told News4 on Wednesday by phone.

Butler is in the hospital and has undergone eight surgeries. She still cannot walk.

"He hit me, then he dragged me, almost to my death," Butler said.

According to a police report obtained by News4, the dump truck's right tire rolled over Butler's legs and dragged her about 67 feet before the driver heard her screams and stopped the truck.

Investigators cited Alvarez with failure to yield right-of-way.

In 2015, Alvarez was charged in a hit-and-run crash that seriously injured 22-year-old Ethan Zimmerman. The Gallaudet University student was walking in a crosswalk on Florida Avenue. Zimmerman suffered multiple broken bones and went through numerous operations. He is still recovering.

A judge has ordered Alvarez not to drive any commercial vehicles. Alvarez is awaiting a September court hearing.

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