Driver comes forward after child's hit-and-run, says it was 'total accident'

Paul Wall, of Raleigh, said he first learned the North Carolina State Highway Patrol was looking for a white Ford F-150 while watching the news on Wednesday morning.

He went outside to find damage to his left bumper and front grille. Wall said he immediately called authorities to report the damage.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the family,” Wall said. “I have nothing to hide. It was a total accident.”

Wall said he was driving home from bible study at Benson Grove Baptist Church in Angier.

It isn't clear when or how the child left his home or what he was doing on the road.

Fred, known to family as "FJ," was badly injured and died at a local hospital.

According to family, Fred had autism and did not speak much. He was a student at Wakelon Elementary School in Zebulon.

“I think it’s tragic. It’s heartbreaking. I can’t imagine how the family feels," said neighbor Elizabeth Cain.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol said no charges have been filed against Wall, but it is continuing to investigate the collision as a hit-and-run.

“The Lord knows what happened. It is in his hands,” Wall said. "I have a lot of people who are praying for me.”