An unfortunate incident occurred at a gas station in Woodland, located in the Sacramento metropolitan area, as a 2-year-old child was tragically struck and killed by an unattended truck. The incident took place on Saturday, and law enforcement authorities have stated that no arrest has been made at this point.

According to the Woodland Police Department, the owner of the Dodge truck had left the vehicle running while parked at a pump, with his 3-year-old child seated in a car seat. The owner then entered the gas station store, unaware of the unfolding tragedy. The 3-year-old somehow managed to free themselves from the car seat and make their way to the driver's seat.

"At some point, the truck began moving forward and collided with a two-year-old child who was near a taco stand on the edge of the gas station lot," stated the Woodland Police Department in a press release issued on Monday. Witnesses confirmed that they saw the 3-year-old in the driver's seat.

Authorities responded to the report of a child being struck by a vehicle around 3:46 p.m. The 2-year-old victim, identified as Ailahni Sanchez Martinez of Woodland, was seated at a table when the collision occurred. Family members rushed her to a nearby hospital, but unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries.

Ailahni's father, Sandro Sanchez, expressed his devastation at the loss of his young daughter. He shared with Sacramento ABC affiliate KXTV that Ailahni would have celebrated her third birthday in April.

The Woodland Police Department assured the public that all parties involved are cooperating fully in the ongoing investigation. Law enforcement officials are working diligently to gather statements, analyze evidence, review video surveillance footage, create scene diagrams, and compile comprehensive investigative reports. They also appealed for patience from the community during this process.

Once the investigation is completed, it will be forwarded to the local district attorney's office for review. Meanwhile, a memorial for Ailahni has been set up at the collision site, with her family seeking accountability for the tragedy.

Sandro Sanchez spoke of the deep impact caused by this incident, stating, "That person took a life from a little girl. His truck was supposed to be off." The grieving family now hopes for justice to be served for their beloved Ailahni.

As this heartbreaking story continues to unfold, the community remains united in mourning the loss of a precious young life and supporting the grieving family during this difficult time.