Hit-and-run suspect pleads guilty

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - A Virginia Beach man pleaded guilty Wednesday to hitting an 11-year-old girl with his car, then leaving the scene.

The judge told Mark Tietjen that he faces up to 10 years behind bars when he is sentenced in August.

Tietjen was charged with felony hit-and-run after the February 9 accident.

Police said the young girl was crossing Lynnhaven Parkway at the intersection of Crimson Holly Lane in Virginia Beach that afternoon when she was hit by a mini-van. She was critically hurt.

"He had a valid driver's license, no substance abuse involved. He just panicked and left, and he deeply, deeply regrets it," said Tietjen's attorney Bob Morecock.

Court records show Tietjen has had previous run-ins with the law involving alcohol and traffic charges including speeding, impaired driving, and driving with a suspended license. However, that was not hte case of the day of this accident, according to Tietjen's attorney.

Morecock said Tietjen was employed as an auto-body mechanic. He pointed out his client has written a letter to the court expressing his remorse and concern over what's happened.

"His prayers are for her as are his entire family's and mine for her recovery. We hope for the best. He's not charged with causing the accident. He's charged with leaving," said Morecock.

The victim's family was not at Wednesday's court hearing.

Tietjen remains behind bars. His sentencing is set for August 17.