17-month-old girl killed in driveway in Craigieburn

A toddler has died after being hit by a car in a driveway in Craigieburn, with neighbours saying the 17-month-old was “full of joy”.

The driveway on Esteem Rd where the toddler was hit. Picture: Brendan Beckett

A toddler has been killed after she was hit by a car in a driveway in Craigieburn.

Paramedics were called to the driveway on Esteem Rd around 8:20pm on Friday and worked to save the toddler, aged 17-months, but she died at the scene.

The male driver is assisting police with their inquiries, with the circumstances surrounding the collision are yet to be established.

Neighbours Olgun and Pembe Kemal said the toddler could often be seen playing out the front of the house.

“The kid was always full of energy, it is very sad news,” said Mrs Kemal.

Neighbours said the tragic toddler was an only child.

Manjinder Khlon and his wife Ardaman said the little girl could often be seen playing outside her house. Picture: Brendan Beckett

Neighbours along Esteem Rd were alerted to the tragedy when their street was lit up with the flashing lights of emergency crews.

Another neighbour, Manjinder Khlon, said the family is very quiet and doesn’t often interact with others on the street.

“It is a very unfortunate thing that’s happened. I have little kids with me and it’s a quiet street,” he said.

“They are a peaceful quiet family, it’s something that shouldn’t happen to anyone.

“The mother was crying and it was horrible.”

One neighbour who is close to the family said he had previously acted as a babysitter for the family.

“The child was full of joy,” he said.

“I honestly don’t know how they will get over it, it will stay with them forever.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at crimestoppersvic.com.au.

The tragedy takes Victoria’s road toll to 270, 45 more lives lost than the same time last year and a 15-year high.