Child Fatally Struck By Car After Running Into Traffic: Long Beach Police

LONG BEACH, CA — A child was fatally struck over the weekend after running into traffic in Long Beach, according to police.

The incident occurred shortly after 4:30 p.m. Saturday near Paramount Boulevard and 56th Street, police said, where a 2020 Honda Civic was traveling south when the child ran into Paramount Boulevard and was hit.

The child was taken to a hospital and later died, according to police. An investigator told City News Service the child was younger than 10 years old.

“Our hearts are with this young child’s family, and everyone affected by this terrible traffic collision,” Police Chief Wally Hebeish said in a news release. “This is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly unexpected tragedies can occur and is a solemn reminder of the importance of doing all we can to ensure everyone’s safety on our roadways.”

The driver, a 27-year-old man from Paramount, stayed at the scene and cooperated with authorities, police said.

“At this time, speed, distracted driving, and driving under the influence are not believed to be factors in the collision,” according to the news release from the Long Beach Police Department.

Anyone who may have seen the crash is asked to contact police at 562-570-7355. Anonymous tips may be submitted through LA Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477, downloading the P3 TIPS app or visiting LACrimeStoppers.org.

City News Service contributed to this story.