Watch CBS News

1 Child Dead, 3 Other Children Seriously Injured In Deerfield Beach Crash

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

DEERFIELD BEACH (CBSMiami) – The Broward Sheriff's Office says one child died and three other children were seriously injured in a Deerfield Beach crash.

Late Thursday, investigators said it appears that at least some of the children were not properly restrained in the car.

Investigators say they believe the driver of a Nissan Altima was turning into a supermarket parking lot on West Hillsboro Boulevard in Deerfield Beach around 4 p.m. when it collided with a Ford Ranger pickup truck.

As crashes go, investigators say this was a particularly bad one.

"BSO had to extricate some of the children from the vehicle," said Mike Jackles, with BSO Fire Rescue.

CLICK HERE To Watch Carey Codd's Report 

Phaedra Wiggins is a mother of four. She said the sight of four injured children in the accident – ages 4 to 11 – left her hurting.

"Just seeing them laying down their helpless," Wiggins said. "I'm just shaking."

Paramedics flew one of those children to Broward Health Medical Center by air rescue. The others arrived at the hospital by ground, with a woman following them in. It's unclear what the relationship is between the woman and the kids.

Authorities said a 6-year-old girl injured in the crash died shortly after reaching the hospital. One child is listed in extremely critical condition. The two others are in serious condition, but have stabilized.

The driver of the Nissan was also injured, but her condition has not been released.

The two people in the pickup were reportedly not injured and remained on scene.

The sight of the damage and the severely injured children left people who witnessed the aftermath praying the kids would survive.

"I'm very shook up," said Alesia Hollis. "I'm crying inside."

Investigators say they're trying to figure out exactly what led to the crash.

The investigation is being led by BSO's Traffic Homicide unit.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.