Two-Year-Old Boy Killed in La Mirage Motel Parking Lot on Union Avenue
BAKERSFIELD, CA (March 16, 2018) – On Friday afternoon, a young boy was struck and killed by a driver under the influence, in the parking lot of La Mirage Motel.
The Kern County Coroner’s Office identified the boy as 2-year-old Thaddeus Markell Thomas Jr, also known as “TJ” by family and friends. According to Bakersfield Police Sgt Mike Gerrity, TJ was riding his scooter around 2:10 PM in the parking lot of the motel, when a woman struck him with her vehicle.
The woman was 55-year-old Ladanna Samara Morales. She remained at the scene of the accident and cooperated with police officials. TJ suffered critical injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The boy succumbed to his injuries and was later pronounced dead by medical professionals.
Morales was arrested and charged with one misdemeanor for driving under the influence of a drug, and one felony of possession of drug paraphernalia. Her bail is currently at $27,5000, and she is due in court on March 30th. Anyone with additional information on this fatal incident is encouraged to call the Bakersfield Police Department at (661) 327-7111.
No other information has been released at this time as police continue to investigate.
A vigil was held for the young boy on Saturday evening around 6 PM, at the La Mirage Motel, located at 525 Union Avenue.
Heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Thaddeus Markell Thomas Jr. May he rest in peace.
If you have a lost a child to the irresponsible and reckless driving of a person under the influence, contact the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet Law Group. We know what you are going through, and are to help. We promise to fight for you and your family, and achieve the compensation and justice that is owed. Call our offices at (800) 203-3061 for a free initial visit with a legal professional in your area.
