Toddler Killed, 2 Injured After SUV Reverses Over Curb in California

The incident took place in Long Beach, where a driver struck three people sitting on apartment steps.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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A toddler has died and two others were injured after an SUV reversed over a curb and struck them in Long Beach, California. The victims, who were sitting on the steps of an apartment building, were rushed to the hospital, but the toddler later succumbed to their injuries. The driver, a man, is cooperating with the ongoing police investigation, though no charges have been announced yet.

Why it matters

Incidents involving vehicles reversing over curbs and striking pedestrians are tragically common, highlighting the need for improved safety measures and driver education to prevent such devastating accidents, especially in residential areas.

The details

According to authorities, the incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. on Monday, March 2, in the 400 block of Maine Avenue in Long Beach. A female adult, a female child, and a female toddler were sitting on the stairs of an apartment building when an SUV reversed onto the curb, striking all three. Police officers provided first aid to the toddler before rushing them to the hospital, where they later died. The other two victims were also taken to the hospital with traumatic injuries but are reported to be in stable condition.

  • The incident took place around 11:30 a.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026.
  • The toddler was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

The players

Long Beach Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the incident.

The driver

A male driver of the SUV who is cooperating with the police investigation, though no charges have been announced yet.

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What they’re saying

“I heard screeching tires before the crash.”

— Neighbor (Long Beach Post News)

“I heard a loud bang and a scream that you know something bad happened.”

— Neighbor Alisa Hill (Long Beach Post News)

What’s next

The investigation into the incident remains ongoing, and authorities are working to determine if drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash.

The takeaway

This tragic accident underscores the importance of heightened safety measures and driver education to prevent similar incidents, especially in residential areas where pedestrians, including young children, are present. The community is left to grapple with the devastating loss of a young life and the need to ensure greater protection for all.