Toddler Hit and Killed by Vehicle in Town ‘N’ Country, Florida
Published July 6, 2023 5:43AM
TOWN ‘N’ COUNTRY, Fla. – A tragic incident occurred early Thursday morning when a toddler was hit and killed by a vehicle in Town ‘N’ Country, Florida. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is currently investigating the incident.
Deputies received a distressing 911 call just before 3 a.m. reporting that a toddler had been struck by a vehicle in the northbound lanes of Sheldon Road near Brennan Circle. Upon arrival, deputies discovered a 3-year-old child in the roadway. The toddler was immediately rushed to St. Joseph’s Hospital but unfortunately succumbed to their injuries.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the driver who hit the child had just finished work and was returning home at the time of the accident. Investigators have determined that the driver showed no signs of impairment or wrongdoing.
The driver initially felt an impact but did not see anything in the roadway. After turning his vehicle around, he tragically discovered that he had hit the toddler.
Deputies immediately began investigating why the child was out on the road at such an hour and where the parents were located. Within an hour, investigators found an open door at the Valencia Apartments, which is approximately a quarter of a mile away from the crash scene. Inside, deputies found the child’s frantic parents desperately searching for their missing child.
Amanda Granit, the chief communications officer with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, expressed the heartbreak and nightmare the parents were experiencing. She emphasized that at 3:30 in the morning, there is no place a child should be other than safe and inside their bed. Tragically, the parents received the devastating news of their child’s passing at the hospital.
During a press conference, Granit stated that no charges have been filed against the parents or the driver at this point. The investigation is ongoing.
Sheriff Chad Chronister highlighted the densely populated nature of the area, with numerous homes and apartment complexes. He commended the deputies for their determination in locating the open door at the Valencia Apartments and realizing the parents were searching for their child.
Due to Marsy’s Law, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is not releasing the gender of the child.
The northbound lanes of Sheldon Road from Mayflower Road to Fountain Avenue were temporarily closed while deputies conducted their investigation.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
How can the community offer support and condolences to the grieving family affected by this tragic accident
S been identified as a 35-year-old woman. The driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. It is unclear at this time if any charges will be filed.
The incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers that can arise when children are near roadways. It is essential for parents and caregivers to be vigilant in ensuring the safety of young children, especially in areas where vehicles are present.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward. They are particularly interested in speaking with any witnesses who may have seen the events leading up to the tragedy or have information about the driver and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
This heartbreaking incident is a tragedy for the family and the community as a whole. It serves as a reminder of the importance of practicing safe driving habits and being aware of pedestrians, especially young children, who may not understand the dangers of being near busy roads.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident and will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the community is urged to come together in offering support and condolences to the grieving family.
This devastating accident is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the need for everyone to prioritize safety on the roads. Taking precautions and being mindful of others can help prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
This heartbreaking incident is a stark reminder of the need for increased awareness and caution on the roads. My thoughts go out to the family affected by this devastating tragedy.