A tragic crash in Long Beach has left a 20-month-old toddler dead and two of her family members injured after a driver allegedly sped backward onto a sidewalk and struck them earlier this week, authorities said.
The fatal incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. Monday in the 400 block of Maine Avenue, where police say an SUV suddenly reversed at a high rate of speed, jumped a curb, and slammed into three pedestrians sitting on the steps outside an apartment building.
The toddler, identified as 20-month-old Myrah Hunter, suffered critical injuries in the crash. Officers at the scene immediately tried to save the child and rushed her to a nearby hospital themselves rather than waiting for paramedics, but she later died from her injuries.
Two other family members were also struck during the crash — a 12-year-old girl and a 45-year-old woman, believed to be the child’s niece and aunt. The girl reportedly suffered a broken leg, while the woman sustained broken ribs and other traumatic injuries. Both were transported to a hospital and were reported to be in stable condition.
Mother Witnessed the Crash
The toddler’s mother, who witnessed the crash unfold, described the horrifying moment when the vehicle suddenly jumped the curb.
She said the driver attempted to park before the vehicle surged onto the sidewalk. When the dust settled, she saw her young daughter lying on top of her injured relative.
The mother also said her niece helped prevent an even greater tragedy by keeping the toddler’s infant brother away from the vehicle moments before impact.
Driver Arrested
Police identified the driver as 55-year-old Lamont Ivan Russell of Long Beach. Investigators say he remained at the scene and was arrested.
Russell was booked on multiple charges including felony vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence causing injury, according to authorities. His bail was set at $335,000.
Investigators believe speed, distraction, and impaired driving may have contributed to the crash.
Investigation Ongoing
The Long Beach Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and is asking anyone with additional information to contact detectives.
The devastating loss has shaken the Long Beach community as family members mourn the death of a toddler whose life was cut tragically short.
