(04/14/06) NORTH AMITYVILLE ? Suffolk County police are searching for the driver who critically injured a 15-year-old boy in North Amityville.

Michael Dukes was hit by a car while playing basketball in front of his home last Friday. Witnesses say the car struck Dukes as he bent down to tie his shoelaces, then sped off. Dukes? mother is asking the driver of the vehicle to take responsibility and surrender to authorities.

Dukes has undergone two surgeries for head injuries, but he is still unable to speak to his family. Police are looking for a late 90s black Nissan Sentra with damage to the right side of the front bumper. Anyone with information on the incident are encouraged to call 1-800-220-TIPS.