A two-year old child playing near her driveway on her birthday was struck by a vehicle Sunday afternoon as the driver pulled onto the property. Despite the efforts of first responders, the child succumbed to her injuries.
On November 23, 2025 at approximately 1:55 p.m., a two year-old girl was playing near the driveway of her home located at 675 Ave. G SE in Winter Haven. A visitor arriving at the home driving a black Tesla started backing into the driveway and did not see the child. The Tesla struck the child as the mother stood a short distance away. First responders arrived within five minutes and began life-saving measures. Despite attempts to save the child, she was pronounced deceased at Winter Haven Health at approximately 3:30 p.m.
The driver of the Tesla, 31 year-old Sinyel St. Eloi was cooperative with investigators. Impairment nor foul play appear to be factors in this case, however the investigation is ongoing.
“Our hearts go out to this family losing their precious daughter at such a tender age,” said Police Chief Vance Monroe. “Entering into the holiday season compounds the pain they must be enduring and we will continue to keep them in our prayers.”
