Toddler Dies After Father Doesn't Realize He's Behind His Truck

CHARLOTTE, NC — CMPD is investigating the death of a toddler who died after being struck in the driveway of his home, according to police.

On Monday just before 9 p.m., Steele Creek officers responded to Atrium Health where the toddler, identified as Mateo Jaciel Ayala-Martinez, was taken for medical treatment after what preliminary investigation indicates was a horrific accident.

Officers state the baby's father, Elgar Orlando Ayala, went outside to move his 2001 Chevy Silverado at their home.

Ayala said that he pulled slightly forward before beginning to back up, which is when he heard Martinez yelling, realizing he has struck the toddler when he got out of the truck. Both parents thought the toddler was inside the home. The parents then rushed Martinez to Atrium Health Pineville, where he was then flown to Atrium Health Main for the severity of his injuries.

The next day, shortly after 4 a.m., Martinez was pronounced dead by hospital staff.

Anyone who witnessed or has information about the crash should contact Detective Mercedes at 704-432-2169, extension 5. The public can also leave information anonymously by contacting Crime Stoppers at 704-334-1600 or http://charlottecrimestoppers.com/. The report number for this case is 20211213-2049-01.