A toddler in Gainesville, Georgia, who was just shy of his second birthday, died last week after he and his father were hit by a car while window-shopping. The incident occurred Wednesday at the Limestone Marketplace shopping center.
Samuel Skelton, a Gainesville firefighter, was with his 22-month-old son, Knox Skelton, when a 68-year-old woman driving a white SUV accidentally accelerated over a curb while attempting to park, striking both of them. According to Gainesville Police Captain Kevin Holbrook, Samuel Skelton had his back to the vehicle and did not see what was coming.
Knox Skelton suffered critical injuries in the incident and was transported to a hospital in Atlanta, where he later died. His father, Samuel Skelton, also sustained injuries but did not require medical treatment, police stated. Captain Holbrook confirmed that Samuel Skelton and his wife, Kiana Skelton, were able to travel to Atlanta to say goodbye to their son before his passing.
Captain Holbrook described the emotional toll of the tragedy, noting that while police typically compartmentalize such events, the loss of a young child in the community makes it difficult to do so. He stated, “And just like trying to get through this interview, it’s emotional, knowing that we lost a young child in this community.”
The Gainesville Fire Department expressed its profound grief in a social media post on Thursday. The department released a photo of the Skelton family and described Samuel and Kiana Skelton as "humble, caring, and genuine people." The post conveyed that the department is "heartbroken by this tragedy" and urged the community to offer "love, prayers, and support as they navigate this incredibly difficult time." The fire department also acknowledged the burden carried by its own staff members who responded to the crash, realizing it involved a colleague's family member, stating that they, too, are carrying the weight of this tragedy.
Members of the Gainesville Fire Department have since organized a fundraiser to support Samuel and Kiana Skelton. As of early Sunday, the initiative had successfully raised more than $65,000 for the family.
The 68-year-old female driver remained at the scene following the incident and fully cooperated with officers, police confirmed. She is not currently facing any charges. Captain Holbrook characterized the event as "just a tragic accident, altogether," emphasizing that the elderly female driver did not intentionally cause the collision.
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the crash. Police have impounded the car as evidence and are examining its brakes and tires. They also plan to review cellphone data. Captain Holbrook indicated that once the investigation is complete, the case will be forwarded to the district attorney or solicitor general, who will then determine if any criminal charges will be filed against the driver. An answer regarding potential charges could be available within weeks, according to Captain Holbrook.