7 days ago
Parents charged after 7-year-old struck and killed while crossing Gastonia street unsupervised
GASTONIA, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — An accident that claimed the life of a 7-year-old boy in Gastonia has now resulted in criminal charges against the parents, authorities announced.
The incident occurred around 5:55 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27, in the 1000 block of West Hudson Boulevard. Police said the child was crossing the street outside of a designated crosswalk with his 10-year-old brother when he was hit by a Jeep Cherokee driven by a 76-year-old woman.
First responders rushed the injured boy to CaroMont Regional Medical Center. He was later transferred to Levine Children's Hospital in Charlotte. Despite the medical staff's efforts, the child died from his injuries and was pronounced dead around 10 p.m.
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Police revealed that the young boy was unsupervised at the time of the accident. Now, both parents, Jessica Ivey and Samuele Jenkins, are facing charges in connection with his death.
The parents have been charged with felony involuntary manslaughter, felony child neglect, and misdemeanor child neglect. The decision, police said, was not made lightly.
'In such cases, adults must be held accountable for their responsibilities to ensure a safe environment for their children,' the Gastonia Police Department said.
Police emphasized that there was no indication of speeding or driver negligence. The 76-year-old driver is cooperating with investigators and, at this time, faces no charges.
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