Erie, Colorado – Police are searching for the driver involved in a devastating hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a 2-year-old child Sunday afternoon in the town of Erie. Authorities say the driver fled the scene after striking the toddler in a residential neighborhood, leaving first responders to fight to save the child’s life.
Despite immediate medical attention and life-saving efforts, the toddler later died from severe injuries, according to the Erie Police Department.
Incident Overview
The fatal crash occurred around 4:40 p.m. Sunday in a neighborhood area east of Mountain View Boulevard and north of Village Vista Drive in Erie. Officers with the Erie Police Department (EPD) confirmed that the vehicle involved left the scene immediately after the collision.
First responders arrived quickly and located the child suffering from serious injuries. Emergency personnel attempted life-saving measures before transporting the victim for medical care. Tragically, those efforts were unsuccessful.
Police have not released additional identifying details about the child, citing privacy considerations for the family.
Timeline of Events
According to investigators:
- The crash happened at approximately 4:40 p.m. Sunday
- Location: East of Mountain View Blvd and north of Village Vista Drive
- Victim: 2-year-old child
- Suspect: Driver fled the scene
- Outcome: Child died despite life-saving attempts
Authorities immediately launched an investigation and are now asking for the public’s help in identifying the vehicle and driver responsible.
Statement From Erie Police Department
The Erie Police Department strongly condemned the driver’s actions and urged the individual to turn themselves in.
“Leaving the scene of a crash—especially one involving injury or loss of life—is both unlawful and deeply troubling. We urge the individual involved to come forward.”
Police emphasized that hit-and-run incidents involving fatalities carry severe criminal penalties under Colorado law.
Police Chief Addresses Community Concerns
In response to questions from residents, Erie Police Chief Lee Mathis addressed the department’s handling of public communication and transparency following the tragedy.
“One of the things we strive to do here at the Erie Police Department is to be as transparent as possible with the community regarding what is going on in Town. Our intention is never to cause discomfort or discord among anyone, but simply to inform, as best we can, regarding what is happening in town.”
Chief Mathis explained that while transparency is important, the department is also careful not to release identifying information about victims in order to respect family privacy.
He also clarified the department’s approach to social media comments and public discussions, noting that restricting or deleting comments could raise First Amendment concerns unless threats or obscene language are involved.
“I will end with my deepest sympathies for the young boy and his family in this case. As a parent of two grown sons, I cannot imagine the anguish, sorrow and pain they are going through right now.”
Chief Mathis assured the community that investigators are working diligently to prevent another tragedy like this from occurring.
A Troubling Pattern of Crashes This Week
Police revealed that this incident marks the second fatal crash in Erie on the same day and the third serious crash in the community this week.
Earlier Sunday morning, an 18-year-old was killed after allegedly speeding on Erie Parkway, crossing the median, and striking a bridge guardrail.
The series of crashes has heightened concern among residents about traffic safety, speeding, and reckless driving in the area.
Public Safety Reminder for Drivers
Following the tragic events, Erie police are urging drivers to slow down and remain alert, especially in residential neighborhoods where children may be present.
Key safety reminders include:
- Obey posted speed limits
- Stay attentive and avoid distractions
- Exercise extra caution in neighborhoods
- Never leave the scene of a crash
Hit-and-run offenses not only carry significant legal consequences but also delay critical medical care that can mean the difference between life and death.
How to Report Information
Authorities are asking anyone with information related to the crash to contact the Erie Police Department at (303) 441-4444. Even small details could assist investigators in identifying the driver responsible.
Police have not yet released a description of the vehicle involved but confirmed that the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Conclusion
The loss of a young child has deeply shaken the Erie community. As investigators continue their search for the suspect, police are urging residents to cooperate and prioritize roadway safety.
This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless driving and fleeing the scene of a crash.
If you have any information that could help bring justice to the family, contact authorities immediately. Share your experiences in the comments below.
