(credit: CBS)

DENVER (CBS4) – A 2-year-old was critically hurt on Thursday afternoon when he ran out into the street while chasing a ball and was struck by an SUV.

The incident happened near the intersection of Green Court and Grove Street in West Denver, near where Speer, 32nd and Irving meet.

Police told CBS4 the driver actually may have tried to swerve to avoid the child and stayed on the scene afterwards. Investigators were checking to see if sun glare may have played a role in the crash.

The boy has life threatening head injuries.

Watch CBS4 News for updates on the incident.