Jeremy Donovan/FOX 40 News
Jeremy Donovan/FOX 40 News
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The driver of a vehicle that struck a woman on Binghamton's Court Street bridge is believed to have been arguing with a passenger just prior to the incident.

The woman who was operating the sport utility vehicle at the time of Saturday night's crash has been charged with driving while intoxicated.

Mayor Richard David said the woman who was hit was seriously injured. He said he believed the Long Island resident is about 20 years old and was visiting a friend who is a Binghamton University student.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, David said it was his understanding that the driver and a passenger were in the middle of an argument, apparently causing the driver to be distracted.

The eastbound SUV jumped a curb and pinned the pedestrian against part of the bridge.

The mayor described the incident as "heartbreaking" and "tragic." He said the injured woman's parents were in the area on Monday. He said the city has been in contact with them.

David said a police officer who arrived at the scene "displayed heroic efforts" in stabilizing the woman, likely helping to save her life.

The mayor said the woman, who sustained severe leg injuries, was taken to Lourdes Hospital.

The police investigation into the incident is ongoing and the names of those involved have not been released.

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