BOSTON -- A 12-year-old boy was in stable condition Wednesday morning, recovering after being hit and dragged by a van in Lynnfield.

The driver of that van is an illegal immigrant and doesn't have a license.

Antonio Montenegro, 52, said he had no idea he hit the child.

Montengro is originally from Costa Rica. By his own admission, he's been living, working, and driving illegally in the U.S. for eight years.

The van is registered to the painting company he owns.

A loophole in state law allows someone who doesn't have a license to register and insure a vehicle.

The child is being treated for leg and head injuries. He is expected to make a full recovery.

Montenegro is charged with operating a vehicle without a license and failing to stop at a crosswalk.