“No-one’s to blame”: Parents speak after tragic driveway incident
The parents of a toddler who died outside their family home in Lake Macquarie, NSW, have understandably been left absolutely heartbroken, saying they feel “completely numb” after the shocking tragedy.
The almost two-year-old was killed after she ran outside and was struck by a car in the family’s driveway on Monday August 15.
Mother Jacintha McPherson said she was still coming to terms with the terrible accident that took her beloved daughter Payton’s life.
"I've been on autopilot," McPherson said. I'm just in survival mode and supporting everyone at the moment. How are you expected to get over it?"
Inquiries are ongoing and McPherson said the family are still in shock after the tragic accident. "It was just an accident, kids being kids, and no-one's to blame, it's no one's fault," she said.
Herself and extended family are coming together in memory of the toddler who brought “joy” and “love” into their lives.
"Typical two-year-old, full of life, full of beans, full of love, the attitude. The memory of our baby girl is important, and you know, trying to give her the send-off that she deserves is what's important."
McPherson has praised the work of emergency service workers and cannot thank them enough.
"I can't thank the police and ambulance and all the doctors that turned up on Monday, it was a shock to all of them, it really was, and they handled themselves so well and they provided everyone with so much support," she said.
"They didn't know her. They didn't have to, but they treated her with so much respect and dignity and that's all a mum can ask for."
Image: NBN