Toddler dies in road tragedy outside home

The 15-month-old girl, who has not been named, suffered fatal injuries in the incident outside her home in Belle Isle, Leeds, on Saturday evening.

Despite desperate attempts by neighbours and paramedics to save her, she was confirmed dead a short time after arriving at hospital.

Her father has been spoken to by police, but officers say initial investigations suggest he was not at fault.

Sgt Carl Quinn, of West Yorkshire Police’s Major Collision Enquiry Team, said: “We are conducting a full investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding this child’s death although early indications are that this appears to have been a tragic accident.”

He continued: “We are working closely with the child’s family to support them at what will clearly be a very difficult time for them.”

The incident happened on Cromwell Mount in Belle Isle at about 7.30pm on Saturday, when the girl was struck by a black Toyota Avensis.

A neighbour administered CPR, with help from a 999 call-handler, until paramedics arrived.

After further treatment on the street from ambulance staff the girl was taken to Leeds General Infirmary but was pronounced dead a short time after she arrived.

Sergeant Quinn said enquiries were continuing and added: “We would appeal for anyone who witnessed the incident itself to contact us.”