Napa, CA – A tragic incident occurred Sunday afternoon near Petaluma, when a tractor struck and killed a 3-year-old child on a private property. Authorities report that the incident took place at approximately 12:35 p.m. in the 3100 block of Skillman Lane.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the child had run into a field where a man was operating a Bobcat tractor. The vehicle struck the child, who was pronounced dead at the scene by first responders. Fire and medical personnel, including those from Rancho Adobe Fire Protection District and Petaluma Fire Department, arrived shortly after the incident.
The tractor operator, who showed signs of intoxication, was detained at the scene. He will be booked into Sonoma County Jail on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) and manslaughter. The California Highway Patrol is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Rancho Adobe Battalion Chief James Deurloo confirmed that the Sonoma County Coroner’s Bureau is also involved in the ongoing investigation. No further details about the individuals involved or the specific cause of the incident have been released at this time.
The CHP-Santa Rosa is urging anyone with additional information about the incident to contact their office at 707-806-5600.
The community is left grieving this heartbreaking loss, and authorities are working to ensure justice is served in this devastating case.