The little boy who was tragically run over by a reversing ute driven by his dad has been remembered as a ‘special spark’ by his grieving family and community.
Charlie, 7, was struck by the vehicle outside a home on Victoria Street, Temora in New South Wales’ Riverina region west of Sydney about 2.15pm.
Despite attempts by paramedics and police to revive him, Charlie died at the scene.
His father, 35, was driving the vehicle during the accident, police have confirmed.
Charlie (pictured) was struck by the vehicle outside a home west of Sydney about 2.15pm
Charlie was struck on Victoria Street, Temora in New South Wales and died at the scene
The man was sent for mandatory blood and urine testing after what Inspector Robert Vergano described as a ‘gut-wrenching, terrible tragedy’
The man was sent for mandatory blood and urine testing after what Inspector Robert Vergano described as a ‘gut-wrenching, terrible tragedy’.
‘[It] is extremely concerning for all involved including family and first responders,’ Inspector Vergano said.
‘Investigations indicate at this stage the vehicle was reversing along a very tight driveway and it appears the seven-year-old has run behind the vehicle… and sustained some fatal injuries.’
Police do not believe alcohol or drugs were involved in the boy’s death.
‘The family of the boy are too distressed, suffering from extreme shock,’ a police spokeswoman told AAP.
Inspector Vergano said the accident has had a major impact on the boy’s family and the wider community.
‘Quite understandably the family are extremely shaken, and we ask that their privacy be respected at this tragic time for the family, but also the entire Temora community, who are not travelling too well.’
He urged people to stay vigilant when driving their cars.
Inquiries are continuing and a report will be prepared for the Coroner, police said.
Temora Mayor Rick Firman said the grieving community would be there for Charlie’s family during the horrific time,’ 9 News reported.
‘He had a special spark that we’ll remember very much,’ Cr Firman said.
‘We will step up and we will be there for this family, I can guarantee you that.’
Inspector Vergano said the accident has had a major impact on the boy’s family and the wider community in Temora