A tragic accident has marred the festivities in Avià, a municipality in Barcelona, after a 9-year-old boy was critically injured by a car driven by a 17-year-old.

The incident occurred on Saturday night around 10:48 PM on Pau Casals Avenue, amidst the town's major festival celebrations.

The young driver, who fled the scene, was later apprehended by the Mossos d'Esquadra and faces charges including reckless driving, causing injury through negligence, and driving without a license.

The victim is currently in critical condition at Vall d'Hebron Hospital in Barcelona.

In response to the accident, the Avià Town Council has suspended all festival activities for 2024, expressing deep regret and support for the affected families.

The police continue to investigate the incident, seeking any additional individuals involved.