TAMPA, FL – A tragic accident on Sheldon Road has left a family devastated after a mother and her two children were struck by a vehicle while crossing the street. The incident occurred early this morning as the family was walking to school, using a designated crosswalk with the traffic signal in their favor.
The driver, a 77-year-old man in a green Dodge pickup, failed to notice the family in the crosswalk while turning from Moore Road onto Sheldon Road. Emergency services were notified at 7:38 a.m., and deputies arrived within minutes to provide first aid. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue was alerted to a potential trauma situation and quickly transported the injured to St. Joseph’s Hospital.
The mother, 45, and her 10-year-old son sustained multiple injuries but are expected to recover. Tragically, the six-year-old daughter, Rosalangela Sagundo Osario, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver was also taken to the hospital for evaluation. Authorities have cited him for violating the right of way, resulting in a penalty that includes a $1,000 fine and a six-month license suspension.
Sheriff Chad Chronister expressed his condolences, emphasizing the preventable nature of such tragedies. He urged drivers to stay vigilant, put away distractions, and be particularly cautious during peak hours when pedestrians are more frequent.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly in areas where families and children are present. The investigation is ongoing, but initial findings suggest that speed was not a contributing factor.
Officials confirmed that the family was correctly using the crosswalk, and the driver had a green light. However, the responsibility to yield to pedestrians remains paramount.
As the community mourns this loss, authorities continue to stress the need for attentive driving to prevent further heartbreak. The sheriff’s office is urging all drivers to prioritize safety and remain alert, especially in busy areas.