by Upper Darby, Pennsylvania — A New Year’s Eve argument at a Taco Bell nearly turned deadly after police say a woman intentionally struck her boyfriend with her car, leaving him seriously injured and lucky to be alive. Authorities are now searching for the suspect, who remains wanted on an attempted murder charge.
Police say argument escalated outside Taco Bell
According to the Upper Darby Police Department, the incident unfolded during a heated argument between the couple inside a vehicle at a Taco Bell on West Chester Pike.
Investigators say the boyfriend attempted to de-escalate the situation by exiting the vehicle and walking away.
“He got out of the vehicle, did the right thing, knew tempers were really flaring,” said Upper Darby Police Superintendent Timothy Bernhardt. “Got out of the vehicle and walked away.”
Woman allegedly drove onto sidewalk to hit boyfriend
Police allege that after the man began walking down the street, Destenee Green, 23, drove her vehicle onto the sidewalk, traveling the wrong way, and struck him from behind.
In a press release, police described the outcome as nearly fatal.
“The victim is lucky to be alive,” authorities said.
After the impact, police say Green fled the scene, prompting an active search.
Surveillance video captures violent moment
Surveillance footage obtained shows the boyfriend walking past an auto shop when he is suddenly hit from behind by a vehicle.
The shop owner’s 12-year-old son, who witnessed the crash, described the terrifying moment.
“I just hear a crash and I look outside and he’s on the floor, the car is destroyed from the front end,” the boy said.
“If we didn’t have this truck he would have been not alive.”
Police say the victim suffered multiple injuries and required medical treatment. His current condition has not been publicly detailed.
Suspect remains at large on attempted murder charge
Green is wanted on charges including attempted murder, according to Upper Darby police. Authorities confirmed that her vehicle has been recovered, but she remains at large as of Sunday.
Police said Green has been asked to turn herself in.
Police warn of rising domestic violence incidents
Officials noted an uptick in domestic violence cases in recent weeks, particularly around the holidays.
“The holidays are a tough time of year,” Bernhardt said. “I ask everyone to take a deep breath. Stay calm, walk away.”
Read Also: Ohio Mother Charged With Murder After 3-Year-Old Daughter Dies on New Year’s Eve
In a statement, police emphasized that no one should remain in a violent or toxic relationship, adding that help is available at all hours.
“No one should live in a toxic or violent relationship,” the department said. “Help is available 24/7.”
Investigation ongoing
Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and are asking anyone with information about Green’s whereabouts to contact police immediately.
Have you or someone you know experienced a situation like this?
If you’re in danger or need support, reach out to local authorities or a domestic violence hotline for help. Share your thoughts in the comments as this case develops.
