URGENT UPDATE: A two-year-old toddler is in critical condition after being struck by a van while crossing a pedestrian path with his father in Chelsea Heights, a suburb in southeast Melbourne. The incident occurred at approximately 9:10 PM on August 25, 2023, as the child rode his balance bike.
Authorities report that the toddler sustained severe injuries and is currently fighting for his life in the hospital. The driver of the involved white van, a 29-year-old man from Clyde, stopped at the scene and was subsequently arrested by police. He has since been released pending further investigations.
In a fortunate turn, an off-duty police officer provided immediate emergency care to the toddler until paramedics arrived. Thankfully, the child’s father was not injured during the incident, but the emotional toll is immense.
The Major Collision Investigation Unit has established a crime scene at the intersection and is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. They are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has CCTV or dashcam footage to come forward.
“We are appealing for any information that could help in this investigation,” said a police spokesperson. “If you saw anything at the time or have relevant footage, please contact us.”
Those with information are encouraged to reach out to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers pedestrians, especially young children, face on the roads. The community is urged to stay vigilant as authorities work diligently to uncover the details of this heartbreaking event.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The immediate safety of pedestrians remains a critical focus for local authorities.
