Child hit, killed while chasing after family dog in Daytona Beach, police say

A toddler who was chasing after a dog died after being hit by two vehicles in Daytona Beach on Wednesday night, according to police.

Child hit and killed by 2 cars

The backstory:

The Daytona Beach Police Department hosted a short news conference on Thursday afternoon to provide updates on the investigation.

They said they responded around 8:21 p.m. on April 23 to the area of North Halifax Avenue and Plaza Boulevard regarding a crash involving a child.

When officers arrived, they found a 1-and-one-half-year-old boy with severe injuries. The boy was taken to a local hospital and later died.

What we know:

Police said their investigation has revealed the boy had left his home to follow the family dog, which had gotten loose. 

While chasing the dog, the boy stepped into oncoming traffic and was struck by two vehicles, police said. Authorities said the dog was not hit.

Officials said both drivers and the boy's parents have been cooperating with the investigation, and no charges have currently been filed. 

Authorities said there is no indication that excessive speeding was involved in the accident. 

'A very tragic incident’

What they're saying:

Bill Rhodes, the director of operations for the Daytona Beach Police Department, called the accident "a very tragic accident."

"Obviously, it was a very traumatic and chaotic scene," Rhodes said. "It seems to be just a very tragic accident. … Just this whole mix of things came together in a really tragic turn of events last night."

Rhodes said he doesn't want to hold anyone accountable for "what they did or didn't do."

"Those of us that are parents, we know that little kids are quick and fast," he said. "I guarantee you that they (the parents) are dealing with major trauma today."

What you can do:

The boy's identity has not yet been officially released by investigators. 

However, FOX 35's Matt Trezza spoke with the father of the toddler, who shared his name was Tucker Morgan Dockins. 

A GoFundMe account has been created to assist the family with support to arrange a private viewing and cremation for Tucker.

The GoFundMe describes Tucker as "a sweet, loving boy who always enjoyed being by his big sister's side."

"He had a special bond with his dog companion, who was his constant playmate and friend," the page reads. "Tragically … Tucker's dog broke the front door handle, and Tucker followed the dog out of the house. He was struck by a vehicle and, despite the efforts at the hospital, sadly lost his life."

What's next:

Police said the investigation is still active and ongoing.

STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 35 ORLANDO:

The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Daytona Beach Police Department on April 24, 2025. 

News