Keller teen hospitalized, hit by suspected drunk driver while jogging

As Leo Alvarez waits anxiously for his daughter Nina to emerge from a lengthy surgery, his thoughts are consumed by the uncertain future ahead.

Instead of planning for Nina’s upcoming quinceañera in three months, they find themselves grappling with the reality of her lying unconscious in a hospital bed tonight.

Alvarez recounts how Nina, a 14-year-old student at Indian Springs Middle School, was out for her nightly run, preparing to join the cross-country team at Keller High School.

Tragedy struck when Alvarez’s wife, tracking Nina’s whereabouts through an app, noticed her sudden stillness. Soon after, they received the devastating call from the police.

At the scene of the accident on Bear Creek Parkway, marked by lingering tread marks, Keller Police revealed that Nina had been struck while jogging through a crosswalk. The driver, identified as 67-year-old Michael Mango, was arrested for intoxication assault with a vehicle, having allegedly been speeding and failing to stop in time to prevent the collision.

Alvarez firmly rejects the notion that the incident was a mere accident, emphasizing the recklessness of driving under the influence.

Currently hospitalized at Baylor Scott and White Medical Center Grapevine, Nina remains in critical condition, having undergone surgery for multiple injuries including fractured femurs, a broken knee, and a brain bleed. Further surgeries are scheduled for the following week, with doctors cautioning that her recovery may extend over a year and a half.

Amidst their ordeal, Alvarez appeals for support from the community, emphasizing the power of prayers in their time of need. He also calls for collective action to address pedestrian safety along the busy pathway, advocating for measures beyond conventional methods like flashing lights and painted stripes.

Grateful for the outpouring of support from friends and neighbors, Alvarez acknowledges the financial strain of Nina’s medical expenses and ongoing care, prompting the establishment of a GoFundMe campaign to assist with their burdensome costs.