Family Identifies 2-Year-Old Girl Struck and Killed by Car Outside Memphis Motel
MEMPHIS, TENN. — A tragic accident outside a Memphis motel has claimed the life of a 2-year-old girl, identified by family members as Layloni Stevens, after she was struck by a car in a motel parking lot Monday evening.
According to the Memphis Police Department (MPD), officers responded just after 6:15 p.m. to reports of a child hit by a vehicle at the Economy Inn on Ketchum Road, located on the city’s southeast side.
Investigators say a Chevrolet Impala was driving through the motel’s parking lot when it struck the toddler, who had been playing outside at the time.
Family Says Layloni Was Playing When the Crash Happened
Family members told reporters that they live at the motel and that Layloni had been chasing a ball when she ran into the path of the vehicle. Witnesses said the impact threw the child several feet.
Emergency crews rushed Layloni to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, where doctors pronounced her dead a short time later.
Neighbors described the scene as heartbreaking. “She was such a happy little girl,” one resident said. “Everyone around here knew her — she was always smiling and running around.”
Driver Stayed on Scene; No Charges Filed So Far
Police confirmed that the driver of the Impala remained at the scene and fully cooperated with investigators. MPD said no arrests or charges have been filed at this time, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities have not said whether speeding or impairment played any role in the crash. Traffic investigators are working to determine the cause and reviewing nearby surveillance footage.
Community Grieves Child’s Death
Family members have started collecting donations to help with funeral expenses, and community members have begun leaving toys and flowers near the site of the accident.
Residents in the area say they hope the motel takes additional safety measures, such as speed bumps or fencing, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Anyone with information about the crash or who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact the Memphis Police Department.
Community members wishing to share condolences or thoughts about improving child safety in local neighborhoods are encouraged to join the conversation at napervillelocal.com.
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