Two year old killed in Thursday crash on Staples Mill Road

The toddler was reportedly left in the car of a babysitter before the accident, police said. Two investigations are ongoing: one into the traffic incident and the other into the circumstances of how the girl left the home.

“We are at a loss for words about what unfolded last night,” said Henrico County Police Division Assistant Chief Lauren Edwards. “Any time a crash or violent crime ends in a death is a horrible result, but to have a child as the victim is even more difficult to comprehend.”

Edwards said detectives would thoroughly investigate the case as the community tries to heal from the tragic event.

Preliminary details released by police indicate that the girl had walked into the eastbound lanes of Staples Mill Road where she was hit by a Honda. The Honda driver stayed on the scene of the collision and cooperated with investigators, who don’t think speed or alcohol were a factor in the crash.

The toddler was transported to an area hospital where she later died.

The crash led to the temporary closure of Staples Mill Road between Adair Avenue and Townhouse Road. The accident happened at about 10:45 pm when the Richmond area was pelted by heavy rains.

Henrico police are asking anyone with information on the incident to call Crash Team Investigator B. Jennings at (804) 501-5000, or submit tips anonymously via Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000 or by using P3tips.com.