A day at the shore turned tragic Saturday in New Smyrna Beach when a 2-year-old girl was struck by a vehicle and later died. Deputies and emergency crews rushed to the island shoreline, shutting down part of the beach while investigators worked the scene.
According to officials with the Volusia Sheriff's Office, the crash happened around 4:30 p.m. on the sand near East Seventh Avenue. Investigators say the child ran into a designated traffic lane and was hit by a passing vehicle. She was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Troopers say speed and impairment do not appear to be factors, and the crash is still under investigation, according to FOX 35 Orlando.
How beach driving works in Volusia County
Volusia County is one of the few places in Florida where drivers can still head directly onto the sand, using county-controlled beach ramps that lead to specific driving zones. Access is limited by seasonal hours and permits, with rules that include a 10-mph speed limit, daily or annual vehicle pass fees, and bans on texting and alcohol while driving on the beach, per the Daytona Beach News-Journal.
Investigation and how to help
The Volusia Sheriff's Office says the case remains under active investigation and has not released information about the driver or any possible charges. Anyone with information is asked to contact the sheriff's office New Smyrna non-emergency line at 386-423-3888, or call 911 in an emergency, according to the Volusia County Sheriff's Office.
The loss highlights the risks when cars and beachgoers share the same stretch of sand. Officials say more details will be released as the investigation moves forward, and this story will be updated as new information becomes available from law enforcement or local media.
