Jul 24th, 2025

1-Year-Old Child Killed in Long Beach Car Collision | MLG

A 1-year-old girl died after her mother accidentally struck her with a car while moving it through a carport at their Long Beach apartment complex Wednesday evening, police said.

The tragic incident happened around 6 p.m. in the 5500 block of Ackerfield Avenue in the North Long Beach area. Officials say the child was struck while her mother was repositioning the vehicle inside the residential complex.

According to investigators, the toddler had walked in front of the vehicle without the mother’s knowledge. As the mother slowly pulled forward, she unintentionally hit the child. The impact left the toddler critically injured.

Emergency responders arrived quickly. Paramedics were already performing life-saving efforts on the scene when police officers arrived. The child was transported to a nearby hospital, but despite all medical efforts, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

Authorities have not released the name of the child, citing her age and privacy concerns. They confirmed she was only one year old at the time of the incident.

The preliminary investigation revealed no signs of distracted or impaired driving. Police believe the mother did not see her daughter in front of the car and struck her unintentionally. There are no signs of foul play, and officers have described the situation as a devastating accident.

“At this time, neither impaired nor distracted driving appear to be factors in the collision,” police said in an official statement released later that evening.

Detectives are continuing to gather information and are asking for the public’s help. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has relevant details is urged to contact the Collision Investigation Detail directly. Detective Ashley Van Holland is handling the case and can be reached at 562-570-7355.

Those who wish to remain anonymous can provide tips through LA Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), using the “P3 TIPS” mobile app, or visiting www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

This incident marks the 31st traffic-related death reported in Long Beach so far this year. Last year, the city recorded a total of 40 traffic fatalities, a number that has alarmed both safety officials and local families.

While traffic collisions are not uncommon in the city, officials say this particular case is especially heartbreaking due to the child’s age and the circumstances involved. The tragedy serves as a painful reminder of how quickly accidents can happen, even in familiar, residential environments.

No criminal charges have been filed at this time. Police say their investigation is ongoing, and the final report will consider all evidence collected, including any available surveillance footage, witness accounts, and scene documentation.

Authorities are also urging families with small children to remain vigilant in and around driveways and apartment parking areas. Toddlers can be difficult to spot from behind the wheel, especially in large or elevated vehicles, and safety experts recommend checking all surroundings before moving a vehicle, no matter how short the distance.

As the investigation continues, the family is left to mourn an unimaginable loss. Grief counselors have been made available, and local community members have expressed their condolences. Officials say support services will remain open for those affected by the incident.

The city continues to promote pedestrian and child safety as part of its Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities through better planning, education, and enforcement.

This latest accident underscores the urgency of that mission. As loved ones grieve the loss of a young life, police are urging drivers to take extra precautions, especially in areas where children are likely to be present.