SUV driver backs over, kills toddler

A 14-month-old Brooklyn Center girl was killed Monday afternoon when a family member accidentally backed over her in an SUV.

Brooklyn Center Police Cmdr. Brian Peters said the family member attempted to move an SUV to make room around a barbecue grill. The family member saw two other young children off to the side and assumed the girl was also there.

"She wasn't, and when he backed up, she was struck," he said. The girl was dead when police arrived.

"These types of situations, they're sad, not only for family, [but for] first responders. It's just a tragic accident and a good reminder to make sure that when you're backing up your vehicle you're checking as best you can," he said.

The family member is cooperating with police in the accident investigation.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.