runner hit by thrown ball

Question
If a batter hits/bunts the ball the pitcher picks it up and while throwing to first hits the runner in the back/head with the ball while runner is going to first. Is this live ball, dead ball, runner out? D-3 girls fast pitch

Answer
Hello Thad,

This is not considered interference if the runner is within 3 feet of the baseline is not intentionally trying to interfere with the throw..(such as holding arms and hands up to block ball while running).  If there is no interference called, it is a live ball.  Should interference be called, it would be a dead ball, batter/runner would be out and all other runners would have to return to their previous base.