Suspect arrested in hit-and-run that killed 11-year-old boy

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Washington State Patrol troopers arrested the suspect in a fatal hit-and-run on Jan. 27 in Olympia.

11-year-old Isaiah Bermeo passed away from his injuries early Wednesday morning at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, his parents said Thursday.

The suspected driver, Irven Jacobs, called detectives from a location in Yelm Wednesday afternoon to turn himself in. Troopers arrived and took Jacobs into custody.

He has since been booked into the Thurston County Jail and charged with felony hit-and-run.

Bermeo's family said Isaiah has a bubbly friendly personality, and also has autism. His family recently moved to the area and they don't know why he apparently wandered onto Highway 101 at about 5:30 p.m.

That's where detectives said Jacobs hit Isaiah, throwing his body into a ditch. Jacobs then allegedly sped away north on Highway 101 near Oyster Bay Road after the impact.

On Tuesday, Washington State Patrol said troopers found the van that hit the boy. They later identified Jacobs as the suspect and released his photo to the media.

Renee Paino and David Paino, the parents of Isaiah, released the following statement on Isaiah's passing:

"His life was taken away too soon and we will miss him sorely. We have decided to donate Isaiah’s organs to give the gift of life to someone else in need."  

"Isaiah always had a big smile on his face and was full of life.  He was a typical 11-year-old with a heart of gold.  He enjoyed so many activities, including trampoline jumping, singing, cooking, tickles, croc shoes and so much more.  He also loved bubble machines and helium balloons.  In fact, one of the first things he said as a child was “bubbles.” He was a son that will forever be in our hearts." 
 
"We ask that you give us privacy during this time of grief and healing. Thank you."  

More news from KIRO 7

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE NEWS APP

Cox Media Group