A heartbreaking accident in Jackson Township, New Jersey, has left a family grieving after a 10-month-old infant died when he was accidentally trapped between two vehicles, authorities said.
Wendy Castillo-Torres, 30, of Lakehurst, is now facing charges of causing death while driving without a valid license following the tragic incident that unfolded last Saturday evening.
What Happened: A Tragic Mistake
According to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office, officers were called to Grawtown Road at around 6:15 p.m. on May 11 after receiving reports that a child had been struck by a vehicle.
When police arrived, they found the injured infant unresponsive. The 10-month-old boy was rushed to Monmouth Medical Center, but despite emergency efforts, he was pronounced dead.
Details From the Investigation
Prosecutors shared that Castillo-Torres had taken her baby to a friend’s home to clean cars inside a garage. The infant was seated in a bouncer chair placed between two vehicles.
After finishing the cleaning, Castillo-Torres reportedly got into one of the cars to move it but accidentally put the vehicle into drive instead of reverse. This action trapped the infant between the two cars, causing fatal injuries.
Emergency services were called immediately, but tragically, it was too late.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Castillo-Torres was charged with causing death by vehicle while driving without a valid driver’s license. She was served with the summons and is scheduled to appear in Ocean County Superior Court at a future date.
“This investigation indicates this was a tragic accident,” said Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley Billhimer in a press release. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.”
Community Reaction and Safety Reminders
The accident has shaken the local community, reminding all caregivers of the dangers of allowing children to be near moving vehicles — even in seemingly controlled environments like a garage.
Child safety experts emphasize the importance of never leaving young children unattended near vehicles and always ensuring cars are securely parked with parking brakes engaged during cleaning or maintenance.
The Road Ahead for the Family
While the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on the grieving family as they cope with this unimaginable loss. Support services and counseling are recommended to help families affected by similar tragedies.
Resources for Child Safety
For those looking to learn more about child safety around vehicles, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides helpful tips and resources.
Final Thoughts
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly accidents can happen and the importance of vigilance when children are nearby vehicles. Our hearts go out to the family affected by this heartbreaking loss.
If you or someone you know needs support or assistance related to child safety or grief counseling, local organizations and hotlines are available to help.
“This article was written by Mathew Owen. AI tools were used lightly for grammar and formatting, but the ideas, words, and edits are all mine.”
