Long Beach police sought witnesses Monday to a fatal vehicle-versus-pedestrian crash that took a child’s life.
The crash was reported at 4:39 p.m. Saturday in the area of Paramount Boulevard and 56th Street, according to the Long Beach Police Department.
When officers arrived, Long Beach Fire Department personnel were already at the scene tending to the mortally injured child, who was taken to a hospital and later pronounced dead, police said.
Details about the victim were not made available, although an LBPD investigator told City News Service that the child was under 10 years old.
Preliminary findings by investigators revealed a 2020 Honda Civic was traveling south on Paramount Boulevard when the child ran into the street and was struck, according to a police statement.
The 27-year-old driver, a resident of Paramount, stopped and cooperated with the investigation.
Neither speed, distracted driving nor driving under the influence were believed to be factors in the crash, police said.
“Our hearts are with this young child’s family, and everyone affected by this terrible traffic collision,” LBPD Chief Wally Hebeish said. “This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly unexpected tragedies can occur and is a solemn reminder of the importance of doing all we can to ensure everyone’s safety on our roadways.”
Anyone who witnessed the crash was urged to contact LBPD Collision Investigation Detail Detective D. Dougherty at 562-570-7355. Information can be submitted anonymously through LA Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.LACrimeStoppers.org.