A 3-year-old Big Island girl was critically injured in a Mountain View driveway crash this morning when a pickup rolled backward and struck her, according to Hawaii County police.
Police said a 2004 Toyota Tacoma, occupied by a 17-year-old girl and two boys, ages 6 and 3, was parked in a driveway on the 11-3000 block of Hibiscus Street at about 10 a.m. when it was inadvertently shifted into neutral. The truck rolled back and hit the toddler who was walking behind it.
After striking the child, the pickup continued moving and hit an unoccupied parked vehicle before coming to a stop against a tree, police said.
The toddler was transported in critical condition to the Hilo Benioff Medical Center, then medevaced to Kapiolani Medical Center for Women & Children on Oahu for further treatment.
No other injuries were reported. Police have opened a major traffic collision investigation.
Witnesses sought in Mountain View driveway crash
Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact Officer Laurence Davis at 808-961-2339 or Laurence.Davis@hawaiipolice.gov. Anonymous tips can be provided to CrimeStoppers at 808-961-8300.
Officials reminded residents that serious incidents can occur with little warning, similar to how Kaimuki roof collapse injures four elderly women, EMS says highlighted sudden injuries in a residential setting. For more information on crime prevention and safety resources, visit the Honolulu CrimeStoppers website.
