Woodland, CA (March 18, 2024) A heart-broken community has come together following the death of 2-year-old Ailahni Sanchez Martinez on Saturday, March 16th. The toddler was struck and killed by a pickup in the parking lot of the 76 Gas Station on West Street in Woodland. The fatal accident occurred at approximately 3:45 p.m. and although people tried to stop the tragedy from happening, witnesses said it all happened so suddenly, that their efforts were in vain.
2-year-old Martinez was sitting at a picnic table near the family’s taco stand, according to her father, Sandro Sanchez. Sanchez said they suddenly heard someone scream so he looked over to see a pickup heading right for the table where Ailahni was sitting. The pickup truck had been left running in the gas station parking lot, officers said. Sanchez ran to the truck and opened the door to try and stop it. He was surprised to find a 3-year-old behind the wheel. Sanchez said he pulled the brake in an attempt to stop the pickup truck, but it was too late.
The truck hit the table where Ailahni was sitting, hitting her in the process. The Woodland Police Department arrived at the scene and found the toddler, unresponsive. Initial investigations revealed that the driver of the Dodge pickup had left the vehicle running in the gas station parking lot. He had left his 3-year-old in the vehicle, strapped into a car seat, as well. Apparently, the 3-year-old got out of the car seat and put the pickup in drive, officers said.
2-year-old Ailahni Sanchez Martinez was pronounced dead at the scene. Her father said, “I want justice for my little girl because they left the guy just go free.” She had two brothers and the family is heartbroken over this devastating loss.
The community has created a memorial at the site where Ailahni was killed. Candles, pictures and stuffed animals fill the area in remembrance of the young life that was taken. Our team at Accident News Now is saddened by this tragic news. We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Ailahni Sanchez Martinez, who was taken too soon. If you or someone you care about have been affected by this horrible accident, our team of legal professionals is here to offer guidance during this difficult time.
Have you or a loved one been injured in this accident? Our team specializes in pedestrian accidents and we are here to help! You can reach us 24/7 at (866) 945-4286 or visit our online contact form at Accident News Now.