2-Year-Old Child Killed in Crash on US 64 Bypass

2-Year-Old Child Killed in Crash on US 64 Bypass

A tragic accident on the US 64 Bypass claimed the life of a 2-year-old child after a collision between a 1991 Mustang and a 2023 GMC Acadia. The crash occurred on the afternoon of February 19, 2025, when the rear-end collision left the child fatally injured.

According to law enforcement reports, the incident took place on the westbound lanes of the US 64 Bypass near the intersection with New Hope Church Road. The driver of the 1991 Mustang, a 34-year-old man from the area, was reportedly traveling in the right lane when his vehicle was struck from behind by the GMC Acadia, which was driven by a 56-year-old man. Authorities believe that the impact caused the Mustang to lose control, and it veered off the road before coming to a stop.

Inside the Mustang was the driver and his young child, who was seated in the back. The child, who was in a child safety seat, suffered fatal injuries as a result of the crash. Despite the best efforts of first responders, the child was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Mustang, who was wearing a seatbelt, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The driver of the GMC Acadia was not injured, and officers say he remained at the scene of the accident, cooperating with the investigation. Early reports suggest that speed may have been a contributing factor to the rear-end collision, though authorities have not yet confirmed if alcohol, drugs, or other external factors played a role.

The crash prompted a significant response from local emergency services, with multiple police units and medical teams arriving quickly on-site. Traffic was temporarily halted on the westbound lanes as investigators worked to determine the exact cause of the incident and gather witness statements. Drivers in the area were advised to seek alternate routes, causing delays for hours as crews cleared the scene.

The incident has devastated the local community, with many offering their condolences to the grieving family. Local authorities have pledged to provide support to the family during this difficult time and are working closely with the coroner’s office to complete the necessary investigation.

While the investigation into the crash is ongoing, law enforcement officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant and follow all traffic laws, especially in areas with heavy traffic. “Rear-end collisions are a tragic reminder of the importance of keeping a safe following distance and staying focused on the road,” said Sgt. Lisa Torres of the local police department. “We extend our deepest sympathies to the family involved in this terrible accident and ask for the public’s cooperation as we continue to investigate.”

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and local authorities will be reviewing the circumstances surrounding the crash in an effort to understand the exact causes and prevent similar incidents in the future.

As of now, no charges have been filed in the case, and the investigation is expected to continue for several weeks. The local community continues to mourn the loss of the young child, with many offering support to the grieving family members during this unimaginable loss.