KEARNS, Utah – A family is mourning the loss of their little girl after a horrific accident in Kearns Friday morning, and the young girl is at least the fourth Utah child to be killed in a driveway accident in recent months.
According to officials, 20-month-old Kendra Moad’s grandfather went outside to move his truck and didn’t see the toddler had followed him.
“He got into the red Chevy pickup truck parked at the residence to pull it forward so he could move the garbage cans and unfortunately the child managed to get under, in front of car and he ran over the child,” Unified Police Department Lt. Justin Hoyle said. “Very tragic situation here today.”
Emergency crews said they were called to the home near 5060 S. 4400 W. at about 10 a.m.
Authorities said Kendra was rushed to the hospital with severe head injuries but did not survive.
"It's just sad, what a tragic thing to have just moved in and to lose a baby," said neighbor Zane Day. “It’s a total shame. It’s a tragedy. Kids are God's little angels, they’re sweethearts."
Residents are in disbelief that the newest family to move into their neighborhood could be struck with such sadness. According to a family member, Kendra and her family had previously been living in Washington and just moved in a few weeks earlier. Their grandfather was also visiting from Washington.
"My heart goes out to that family because I have lost a nephew, I got a nephew who was pushed into the Jordan River when he was 4-years-old, so I can understand how hard it is on that family," neighbor Rodney Stuckman said.
This marks at least the fourth time since August that a Utah child has been accidentally run over and killed in their own driveway by a family member.
In August, 15-year-old Marli Hamblin, of Syracuse, was sunbathing in her driveway when her sister backed over her.
In October, 3-year-old Natalie Peterson, of Ivins, was hit by her father while riding her tricycle.
While in March, 2-year-old Tallin Harding, of Lehi, was struck by his mother when he cut in front of her car while riding his scooter.
"No family member ever wants to go through something like this, and so it's always important that when you are pulling out, you're backing out of your driveway: Just take that extra second to check and make sure there is nobody, none of the children have followed you out, or nobody is around your vehicle," Hoyal said.
Kendra's grandfather declined an interview with FOX 13 News. He is not facing any charges at this time, but the case remains under investigation.
