According to authorities, a 7-year-old boy tragically lost his life after being struck by an SUV while attempting to cross a road in North Carolina last week. The incident occurred around 6 PM on May 27 as the boy, identified as Jenkins, was walking with his 10-year-old brother outside Gastonia, which is west of Charlotte. Their mother revealed to local media that it was the first time she allowed him to walk to a nearby grocery store alone.
Jenkins was quickly taken to a local medical facility with severe injuries and subsequently transferred to Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, where he sadly succumbed to his injuries later that night.
His parents, Jessica Ivy and Samere Jenkins, were arrested two days post-incident on charges that include involuntary manslaughter and felony negligence, which the authorities confirmed.
In court on Friday, both parents were given bonds set at $1.5 million each. The Gastonia Police Department expressed heartfelt condolences to the family and noted that the investigation indicated the children were unmonitored at the time of the accident, emphasizing the responsibility adults have in ensuring a safe environment for children.
The incident happened in the 1000 block of West Hudson Boulevard, involving a 76-year-old driver. Officials stated there were no signs of speeding or misconduct on the driver’s part, and no charges have been filed against her. She has been cooperating with the investigation, which is still ongoing.
A witness, Summer Williams, remarked that he witnessed Jenkins step into the road as his brother tried to pull him back. “It was shocking,” he recalled, noting that Jenkins was still alive when help arrived. “Even now, I still see his face at night,” he added.
The boy’s father had also initiated a GoFundMe campaign and shared touching photos of Jenkins prior to the arrest. In one photo, the boy could be seen wearing a t-shirt that read “#Mama’s Boy.” The father described him as a smart, creative child who always had a smile, even during tough times. “He loved sports and truly was a warrior, but after nearly a dozen hospital visits, he, unfortunately, passed away,” he shared.
