North Carolina Parents Face Charges After Son Killed by SUV While Walking with Older Brother
Tragic accident in North Carolina as 7-year-old boy killed crossing the street; parents face charges for leaving him unsupervised.
A tragic accident last week in Gastonia, North Carolina has led to the death of a 7-year-old boy and the subsequent arrest of his parents. Legend Jenkins was struck by a Jeep Cherokee on May 27 at approximately 6 p.m. as he attempted to cross West Hudson Boulevard with his 10-year-old brother. The siblings were outside of a designated crosswalk, and according to family statements, it was their first time walking to a nearby grocery store without adult supervision.
After being hit, Legend was immediately transported to a local medical facility with critical injuries. He was later transferred to Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte, where despite all efforts, he passed away around 10 p.m. that evening. The devastating incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising questions about child safety and parental responsibility.
Police have since arrested Legend’s mother, Jessica Ivey, and father, Sameule Jenkins, charging both with felony involuntary manslaughter, felony child neglect, and misdemeanor child neglect. Their court appearance on Friday resulted in each parent being held on a $1.5 million bond. Authorities described the circumstances in a press release, stating, "adults must be held accountable for their responsibilities to ensure a safe environment for their children," underscoring the seriousness of the charges.
The SUV involved was driven by a 76-year-old woman. Investigators noted that there was no evidence of speeding or wrongdoing on her part, and she has not been charged. Police emphasized that the driver has been fully cooperative as their investigation into the incident remains active.
The aftermath of the tragedy has also highlighted the emotional toll on those at the scene. Summer Williams, a witness, stopped her car immediately after the collision and comforted the young victim as emergency responders arrived. "Just letting him know that somebody was there and he wasn’t alone," Williams recalled, visibly shaken by the memory of the event.
Before his arrest, Legend's father created an online fundraising page, sharing photos and heartfelt memories of his son. The post described Legend as a bright, creative boy who loved sports and was known for his ever-present smile. His family had been preparing to celebrate his eighth birthday later this summer. In their grieving message, the family asked the community for thoughts, prayers, and support during what they called a time of unbearable heartbreak.
This heartbreaking case serves as a somber reminder of the importance of child supervision and traffic safety, especially as families grapple with loss and seek answers in the aftermath of a preventable tragedy.
