Three-Year-Old Boy Dies After Being Struck by Vehicle in Englewood Walmart Parking Lot

A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded Tuesday night in Englewood after a 3-year-old boy was struck by a vehicle in the parking lot of a Walmart on South McCall Road. The Florida Highway Patrol has confirmed that the child, who was airlifted to Tampa General Hospital, has died from his injuries.

According to FHP, the child’s mother was placing an infant into her vehicle, which was parked next to a Jeep. During that moment, the toddler walked in front of the Jeep. The driver of the Jeep then pulled forward and to the right, striking the child.

Emergency crews from Charlotte County Fire & EMS, along with Englewood Fire, responded immediately. The boy was transported by helicopter in critical condition but later died at the hospital. His name has not been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Tragedies like this highlight how dangerous parking lots can be, especially at large retail stores where:

• Cars are constantly moving in and out
• Drivers may have limited visibility
• Children can be difficult to see, particularly near high-profile vehicles
• Distraction is common among both pedestrians and drivers

Even at low speeds, vehicles can cause catastrophic injuries to small children.

Who May Be Liable in Parking Lot Child Injury Cases

Determining liability in a parking lot accident involves examining several factors:

• Was the driver negligent or not paying attention?
• Did the driver check blind spots thoroughly before moving?
• Was the parking lot design or lighting unsafe?
• Did any surveillance footage capture the incident?
• Were there contributing circumstances, such as obstructed views caused by other vehicles?

In many cases, the driver may be held responsible for failing to observe their surroundings before moving forward. Under Florida law, all drivers have a duty to ensure the path is clear before proceeding, especially in areas where pedestrians and children are expected.

Additionally, in certain circumstances, premises liability may come into play if the parking lot’s layout, lighting, or traffic flow contributed to an unsafe environment.

Wrongful Death Rights for the Family

Families who lose a child in a preventable accident may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under the Florida Wrongful Death Act (Florida Statutes §768.16–§768.26). Compensation may help cover:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Mental pain and suffering of the parents
• Loss of companionship
• Medical bills incurred before the child’s passing

Although no amount of compensation can ease the devastation of losing a child, pursuing a claim can help families manage financial burdens and hold negligent parties accountable.

Important Evidence in Cases Like This

To determine fault, attorneys often collect and analyze:

• Store surveillance footage
• Eyewitness statements
• Vehicle damage documentation
• Parking lot diagrams and measurements
• Driver statements and potential distraction indicators
• Lighting and visibility conditions at the time of the crash

Swift evidence preservation is critical in cases involving child injuries and fatalities.

Support for Families After Tragic Parking Lot Accidents

Losing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Families dealing with unimaginable loss deserve compassion, guidance, and a team dedicated to uncovering the truth.

Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm represents families throughout Charlotte County and across Florida. We provide:

• Free and confidential consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Immediate assistance with investigation
• Direct communication with your attorney

If your family has suffered the loss of a child due to a preventable accident, we are here to help you understand your rights and pursue justice during this painful time.