Tragedy in Eastport: Toddler Struck and Killed in Parking Lot Incident

A heartbreaking incident occurred in Eastport, Annapolis, where a 2-year-old boy was struck and killed by a pickup truck in a parking lot. The tragedy has left the community in shock and authorities scrambling to investigate the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident.

Unthinkable Loss: Toddler's Life Cut Short in Tragic Parking Lot Incident

Authorities Respond to Devastating Incident

According to Annapolis Police Chief Ed Jackson, the incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon in the 600 block of Americana Drive in Eastport, near Back Creek. City police officers were dispatched to the scene shortly after 4 p.m. to investigate the incident. A Spanish interpreter was also sent to the location to communicate with the child's mother.Chief Jackson explained that the mother and her two young children, the toddler and an infant, had taken a cab to an apartment complex. The mother had taken the toddler out of the cab and placed him on the sidewalk, but as she went to grab her other child, the 2-year-old ran into the parking lot. Tragically, a pickup truck then struck and killed the toddler.

Investigating the Incident as a Possible Hit-and-Run

Detectives are currently investigating the incident as a hit-and-run, though authorities are unsure of the driver's intent. Chief Jackson stated that the driver "may not even know they struck the child." Until they have reason to believe otherwise, the authorities will continue to investigate the death as a hit-and-run.Mayor Gavin Buckley emphasized the importance of being cautious in residential areas, stating, "In a parking lot, you should always be aware. These are 25 mph streets. There is no excuse." The mayor added that if the incident is determined to be a hit-and-run, the authorities will work tirelessly to find the responsible party.

Mobilizing Emergency Response and Support

Responding to the scene, Chief Jackson said a swarm of emergency personnel and resources were dispatched, including paramedics from the city's fire department, detectives from his agency, and mental health advocates from Anne Arundel County's Crisis Intervention Team. The chief acknowledged that it would be "a long night" as the investigation and support efforts continued.The tragic loss of the young child has left the community in mourning, and authorities are determined to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on providing support to the grieving family and ensuring that such incidents are prevented in the future.