Detroit, MI (August 4, 2025) – A heartbreaking accident claimed the life of a 2-year-old girl Sunday evening on Detroit’s east side after she was struck by a vehicle driven by her father, according to local authorities. The tragedy occurred around 5:34 p.m. near the intersection of McDougall and Victoria Avenues, close to Joseph Campau Ave and the Davison Freeway.
Officers from the Detroit Police Department’s 11th Precinct were the first to arrive and transported the child to a local hospital. Despite their efforts, the young girl succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival.
Initial reports from police indicate the child had been in the arms of a sibling before she unexpectedly got down and ran into the street at the same time her father was pulling out in a vehicle. It is not yet known how fast the vehicle was traveling at the time of the incident.
Captain Derrick Griffin described the incident as a tragic accident, stating that no wrongdoing has been determined at this time. Detroit Police’s Fatal Squad and Child Abuse Unit are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case to ensure a full and accurate understanding of what took place.
“This is a tragedy for the family and a tragedy for the city,” said Griffin. “Children are our most precious citizens… our hearts and condolences go out to this family and to this community.”
Pedestrian Safety and Child-Involved Crashes in Detroit
Incidents involving child pedestrians, particularly those occurring near residential zones or driveways, are among the most devastating tragedies a community can experience. The loss of a 2-year-old girl in a residential area like McDougall and Victoria is not only heartbreaking for the family but also a sobering moment for neighbors, first responders, and the city at large.
In such cases, children are often unpredictable, and even the most careful guardians can face split-second scenarios that lead to unthinkable outcomes. Driveway and low-speed residential accidents account for a significant percentage of non-traffic fatalities among children, highlighting the importance of hyper-vigilance when operating vehicles in areas where children may be nearby.
Detroit has seen a rise in serious and fatal pedestrian accidents in recent months, including incidents on major roadways like the Southfield Freeway and I-96. These collisions underscore a broader public safety concern, ranging from high-speed freeway zones to neighborhood streets where children and families live and play.
Preventive efforts can include the use of child safety barriers, structured supervision, and careful driver checks when backing up or pulling forward in residential driveways. Even so, tragic incidents like Sunday’s crash demonstrate that accidents can occur in seconds despite best intentions.
For families affected by such losses, grief support, legal guidance, and accident reports can be crucial resources as they navigate the emotional and logistical aftermath.
If you or someone you love has experienced a loss or injury due to a pedestrian-related crash, know that compassionate help is available.
Local Accident Reports is here to support grieving families and injured victims in times of crisis. Request your free accident report today and connect with resources that can help you begin the path toward healing and answers.
