Parents facing charges after child left unsupervised, dies in crash while crossing street
GASTONIA, N.C. (WBTV/Gray News) - The parents of a 7-year-old boy who was killed by a vehicle on Tuesday evening are facing several charges.
Gastonia authorities said criminal charges have been filed against the boy’s parents as he was crossing the street unsupervised without using a crosswalk.
The parents, identified as Jessica Ivey, 30, and Samuele Jenkins, 31, are facing felony involuntary manslaughter, felony child neglect and misdemeanor child neglect charges.
Gastonia police said that their investigation revealed that the boy was left unattended when he was hit by an SUV while attempting to cross the street at night.
Authorities said adults must be held able for their responsibilities as they should ensure their children are in a safe environment.
According to investigators, the boy was also with his 10-year-old brother at the time of the crash. Luckily, no other injuries were reported.
Community have since created a growing memorial at the crash site of balloons and flowers.
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