Hit-and-run boy critically ill

A 15-year-old boy is in a coma after being hit by a car which then failed to stop.

An appeal has been made for witnesses to the hit-and-run which happened in Gillingham on Wednesday evening.

Medway Police said the teenager, who has been named as Jean Phillipe Lemoi, and two of his friends were walking along Hempstead Road towards Capstone Road at about 2045 GMT.

As they were walking a vehicle, which police said was travelling at speed, approached them from behind.

The injuries sustained are life-threatening and the next 24 hours are critical Inspector Richard Watson

The vehicle then hit the teenager, who is from Lordswood, but did not stop.

The boy was taken to Medway Maritime Hospital but was later transferred to a hospital in London where his condition is now described as critical.

Inspector Richard Watson, said; "The injuries sustained are life-threatening and the next 24 hours are critical. Jean-Phillipe is currently in a coma.

"We believe the car involved was light coloured and possibly a Ford Escort.

"We expect the car involved to have damage to the front."

He said they also wanted to speak to the driver of a two-tone Ford Escort Cabriolet which was seen close to the scene of the accident.

Insp Watson said: "It is vital we trace anyone who may have been in the area at the time of the accident and urge anyone who may have information in connection with the incident to come forward immediately."

Anyone with information should contact Kent Police.