A 12-year-old Italian boy was killed and his 11-year-old cousin has lost his legs after an SUV hit them in Vittoria near Ragusa Thursday night, hospital sources said Friday.

The car was driven by a 34-year-old known criminal who reportedly failed an alcohol and drugs test, police said.

Italian news agency ANSA reported that the boy who lost his legs is still in a life-threatening condition.

"The boy was operated on but unfortunately we weren't able to save his legs which were sliced off during the crash," said Messina hospital intensive care chief Eloisa Gitto.

"His condition is stable but serious, he's still in a life threatening condition."

The Italian driver has been charged with vehicular homicide.