North Carolina Parents Face Charges Following Son's Fatal Struck-by SUV Incident While Walking with Older Brother
Tragic accident in North Carolina as 7-year-old boy is killed crossing the street; parents face charges for leaving him unsupervised.
A tragic accident in Gastonia, North Carolina, has left a community in mourning and resulted in serious criminal charges for the parents of a young victim. Last week, 7-year-old Legend Jenkins was fatally struck by a Jeep Cherokee as he attempted to cross West Hudson Boulevard alongside his 10-year-old brother. The accident occurred shortly after 6 p.m. on May 27, and authorities say the children were not using a marked crosswalk at the time.
The boys’ mother, Jessica Ivey, revealed that this was the first occasion she had allowed her sons to walk unaccompanied to a nearby grocery store — a decision that would prove devastating. Jenkins sustained critical injuries and was initially transported to a local medical facility before being transferred to Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte. Despite efforts from medical personnel, Legend succumbed to his injuries later that evening.
In the wake of the incident, Gastonia Police launched an investigation, ultimately determining that the children were unsupervised when the accident took place. Within two days, both parents were arrested and now face felony involuntary manslaughter, felony child neglect, and misdemeanor child neglect charges. Both Ivey and Jenkins appeared in court on Friday, where each was issued a $1.5 million bond. The police emphasized the critical responsibility caretakers have in ensuring their children’s safety, stating, “In such cases, adults must be held accountable for their responsibilities to ensure a safe environment for their children.”
The driver of the SUV, a 76-year-old woman, stayed at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Police have found no evidence suggesting speeding or negligence on her part, and she does not currently face any charges. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather details about the moments leading up to the deadly collision.
Eyewitness Summer Williams described the harrowing moments following the crash, recounting how she stopped her car to comfort Legend as he lay injured. “Just letting him know that somebody was there and he wasn’t alone,” Williams recalled, visibly moved by the encounter. She shared that even now, the boy’s face remains with her in her thoughts.
Before his arrest, Legend’s father created a GoFundMe page, sharing heartfelt tributes and family photographs. He remembered his son as “a momma's boy up and down” who was “smart, creative,” and loved playing sports. The post notes that Legend bravely fought for his life, reportedly being revived multiple times before his passing. The family has asked for prayers and support during what they describe as a time of heartbreak.
This incident has reignited discussion around parental supervision, legal accountability, and community safety, leaving many families reflecting on the profound importance of vigilance when it comes to protecting children.
