Prosecutor: 16-year-old charged with fatal hit-and-run stopped at first, then took off

SEATTLE -- A 16-year-old charged today with felony hit-and-run for allegedly hitting and killing a 17-year-old boy on a skateboard initially stopped his car and talked to the victim's brother, documents show, before taking off.

The 16-year-old was charged in King County Juvenile Court today. Q13 FOX News has not named the suspect, since he is being charged as a juvenile.

According to police reports, 17-year-old Andrew Finnell was riding his skateboard in the 4200 block of NE 1st Place in Renton Sunday night when the accused approached him in a Dodge Magnum from behind.

Witnesses told police Finnell put his arm behind him to signal the driver to slow down. But the accused allegedly kept up his speed and hit Finnell, causing life-threatening injuries.

Finnell was taken to Harborview Medical Center where he died days later.

Finnell's brother was with him at the time of the crash, police documents show, and he allegedly ran up to the suspect's car. The victim's brother allegedly yelled at the suspect, saying "why did you hit my brother." The driver allegedly seemed upset himself, and asked why the skateboarder was on the street.

When the victim's brother went back to assist the injured, the driver allegedly sped off.

Finnell's brother provided a description and identification of the driver to police after allegedly finding his photo on Facebook.  The suspect was arrested at his home. He was in jail, but has since been released to his parents' care.

Finnell's family issued a statement Tuesday:

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the death of our beloved Andrew. His amazing character and energy will be greatly missed. Our prayers go out to the family of the driver – this was a tragic accident affecting many.  We respectfully and firmly request privacy at this very difficult time. No interviews or additional statements will be given.”