A heartbreaking accident took place in Cleveland on Friday afternoon, where a toddler was accidentally hit by a car that was being driven by a family member. The child, a 3-year-old girl, was struck in a residential driveway, according to Cleveland police.
The incident happened on the 4100 block of West 42nd Street. Officers received a call about a child being hit by a vehicle shortly after 2:30 PM.
Emergency services rushed to the scene and found the young girl badly injured. She was quickly taken to MetroHealth Medical Center for urgent treatment. According to the latest updates, she remains in critical condition.
The Cleveland Division of Police says the child was in the driveway when a relative who was backing out accidentally struck her. Police have not released the identity of the driver or the child. So far, no charges have been filed.
Neighbors in the area said they were shocked by the incident. Some people nearby heard the screams and saw emergency services arrive minutes later.
One resident mentioned that children often play in the area, and everyone is usually very careful. But in a moment like this, even a small distraction can lead to a tragedy.
A woman who lives next door told reporters that she saw the aftermath of the accident and was deeply shaken. “It’s every parent’s worst nightmare,” she said. “I can’t even imagine what the family is going through.”
Police say they are still investigating exactly how the accident happened. They are checking the vehicle, speaking to witnesses, and reviewing any available security camera footage from nearby homes.
Officials are reminding drivers to be extra cautious when reversing vehicles, especially in areas where children might be playing. Driveways can be dangerous zones for little ones, as they are not always visible to someone inside a car.
Safety experts advise families to always check around the car before moving it and to keep children indoors or in sight when a vehicle is being moved.
As of now, the investigation is ongoing, and police are treating the situation as a tragic accident. Family members of the child have not spoken publicly yet, but are believed to be cooperating fully with the investigation.
Incidents like this are rare but not unheard of. According to safety reports, backover accidents involving children usually happen in residential driveways or parking lots. Most of the time, it’s a parent or close relative behind the wheel.
Experts recommend installing rearview cameras and parking sensors in vehicles and creating safer play areas away from driveways whenever possible.
The community is coming together to support the family during this tough time. Some neighbors have offered help with meals and other needs while the child remains hospitalized. The family is reportedly devastated, and everyone is hoping for the child’s full recovery.
The Cleveland Division of Police is expected to provide more details as the investigation progresses. For now, they are urging all residents to take extra precautions around young children and moving vehicles.
This incident is a painful reminder of how quickly accidents can happen and why constant awareness is necessary, especially around children.