Note: Our firm’s mission is to help people injured in accidents. Because we do this work, we see the consequences of these accidents on the victims and the families. Through these articles, we aim to foster a safer community and provide support to those affected by such tragedies.
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Gastonia, NC (May 27, 2025) - According to local news reports, a tragic incident involving a 7-year-old boy fatally struck by a Jeep SUV has led to criminal charges—not for the driver, but for the child’s parents. The fatal crash occurred around 6:00 p.m. on May 27 on West Hudson Boulevard in Gastonia, North Carolina.
Legend Jenkins, a second grader, was walking with his 10-year-old brother from a Food Lion grocery store just two blocks from their home when the incident happened. Reports confirm the two children were unaccompanied by an adult. While attempting to cross the busy four-lane roadway, Legend stepped into the path of a Jeep Cherokee driven by a 76-year-old woman. Despite his older brother’s attempt to hold him back, Legend ran into the street and was struck.
Emergency responders initially transported Legend to a local facility, and he was later transferred to Levine Children’s Hospital in Charlotte. Despite efforts to save him, including reportedly being revived close to a dozen times, he succumbed to his injuries around 10:00 p.m.
Authorities have stated that the driver of the vehicle will not face charges, as there was no evidence of speeding or driver negligence. Gastonia Police emphasized in a public statement, “There is no evidence of speeding or wrongdoing on the part of the driver, therefore no charges have been filed. The driver continues to be cooperative and the incident remains under active investigation.”
Instead, the boy’s parents, Jessica Ivey and Samuele Jenkins, were arrested and charged with felony involuntary manslaughter and felony child neglect. They were each held on a \$1.5 million bond, reportedly the maximum allowed, and were not permitted to attend their son's funeral.
Authorities noted that the two boys had been at home with their mother before asking to meet their father at the nearby store. The mother agreed, and the boys made the trip alone. Tragically, while on the phone with their father during the walk back, the fatal incident occurred. "I heard my oldest son yell, 'Legend, no!' so I hung up and ran. I just ran to find them," Jenkins recounted to a local station.
A witness at the scene, Summer Williams, said she saw the moment the child was hit and immediately ran to comfort him. “Just letting him know that somebody was there and he wasn’t alone,” she shared. Flowers and memorial items now mark the location on West Hudson Boulevard where the accident occurred.
In the days following the tragedy, the boy’s father launched a GoFundMe campaign, which raised thousands of dollars to assist with funeral costs. The post remembered Legend as “smart, creative,” and a child who “always kept a smile” despite illness. He would have turned eight in August.
Gastonia Police reiterated the basis for the charges against the parents, stating, “While the Gastonia Police Department offers its deepest sympathies to the family for the heartbreaking loss of their child, the investigation revealed that the children involved were unsupervised at the time the boy stepped into traffic. In such cases, adults must be held accountable for their responsibilities to ensure a safe environment for their children.”
Why Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in Gastonia, NC Can Make a Difference
When you're hurt in an accident, the aftermath often feels confusing and stressful. Medical bills pile up, insurance companies start calling, and your regular routine is flipped upside down. That’s where a personal injury attorney in Gastonia can be incredibly helpful. They take on the legal burden so you can focus on your recovery. Whether your case involves a car crash, slip and fall, or pedestrian accident, having someone who understands how North Carolina law works is a major advantage.
A Gastonia personal injury lawyer knows how to look into the facts of your situation, figure out what compensation you're owed, and advocate for you with insurance companies or in court. Many people don’t realize what they’re entitled to until they talk with a lawyer. A good attorney won’t overwhelm you with legal talk—they’ll explain things in everyday language and help you decide the right next step.
Personal injury law can be complicated, especially when dealing with injuries that take time to heal or require ongoing care. That’s why working with someone who’s already helped others in Gastonia can make your case go more smoothly. You don’t have to handle it all alone. Reaching out to a Gastonia personal injury attorney could be the most important step toward getting your life back on track.
Understanding the Role of a Gastonia Personal Injury Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer in Gastonia doesn’t just show up in court. Their work begins the moment you contact them. They’ll ask about the accident, gather your medical records, request the police report, and interview witnesses if necessary. From there, they can begin negotiating with insurance companies and, if needed, prepare to file a lawsuit on your behalf.
Having someone in your corner who knows how to push back when an insurance company offers too little can be a huge relief. These lawyers can help recover costs for things like hospital visits, lost wages, pain and suffering, and even future medical needs. Their experience in the local courts and with North Carolina personal injury laws gives them an edge when building your case.
What to Expect When Working with a Gastonia Personal Injury Attorney
Once you hire a personal injury attorney in Gastonia, NC, you’ll likely notice a weight lifted off your shoulders. They’ll handle communications with the insurance companies, keep track of deadlines, and fight to protect your interests. You’ll have a better understanding of your rights and what’s possible in terms of compensation.
They’ll also be honest with you about your options. Whether a quick settlement makes sense or your case needs to go further, you’ll have the information you need to make smart choices. Best of all, most personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation and work on a contingency basis—meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case.
The Value of Working with a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Gastonia, NC
Pedestrian accidents are some of the most devastating incidents on the road. With no protection around them, pedestrians are vulnerable to serious injuries that can change their lives forever. When that happens, working with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Gastonia, NC can help victims and their families deal with both the physical recovery and the financial fallout.
In cases like these, it’s often hard to know where fault lies. A lawyer can investigate the scene, interview witnesses, check for nearby traffic cameras, and dig into every detail to determine liability. This is especially important when police reports aren’t clear or if the driver wasn’t charged, like in some tragic cases we've seen in Gastonia. The legal process can be tricky, but a local attorney understands how to move things forward.
How a Gastonia Pedestrian Accident Attorney Supports Your Case
A pedestrian accident attorney in Gastonia will focus on making sure all damages are considered. That includes medical expenses, emotional distress, future therapy costs, and more. These lawyers know how serious pedestrian injuries can be—from broken bones and head trauma to long-term mobility issues—and they make sure those injuries are fully represented in any claim.
They also handle conversations with insurance companies, which often try to downplay the severity of pedestrian injuries. With a Gastonia pedestrian accident lawyer by your side, you’re more likely to receive the compensation you deserve.
Why Experience Matters in North Carolina Pedestrian Accident Cases
Not every law firm is equipped to take on pedestrian accident claims, but firms that have worked on similar cases in North Carolina know how to navigate them with confidence. An experienced Gastonia pedestrian accident attorney will already understand the local roadways, accident patterns, and how the courts typically handle these cases.
This kind of familiarity helps move your case along faster and with fewer surprises. You’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re getting someone who understands how these accidents affect real people and who knows how to fight for a fair outcome. Whether the accident was caused by distracted driving, poor signage, or something else, having a knowledgeable advocate on your side makes a difference.
Why Rosensteel Fleishman Is a Smart Option for Pedestrian Accident Cases in Gastonia
Accidents like the one in Gastonia are devastating, both emotionally and legally. When a child is involved, the emotional toll can be overwhelming, and the aftermath becomes even more complex when legal charges are filed against family members. In such difficult times, turning to a law firm with experience in handling pedestrian accident cases can make a meaningful difference. That’s where Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers steps in.
This Charlotte-based law firm has worked with clients across North Carolina, including Gastonia, offering guidance and legal support during the most traumatic moments. They focus on helping families make sense of difficult situations and understand their legal rights. When emotions are running high, it’s crucial to have a legal team that approaches your case with clarity, empathy, and local experience.
If you or someone you know is dealing with the aftermath of a pedestrian accident in Gastonia, reaching out to a Gastonia pedestrian accident attorney who understands the local legal landscape can be a valuable first step. A free consultation with a personal injury lawyer from Rosensteel Fleishman is just a phone call away at 1-704-714-1450.
Why Legal Support Is Important After a Pedestrian Accident
After any serious pedestrian accident, especially involving a fatality or child, it's important to understand what legal actions may be necessary. In Gastonia and throughout North Carolina, pedestrian accidents often involve complex questions around supervision, right-of-way laws, and driver responsibility. A personal injury law firm can help families navigate these elements and determine what legal options are available.
Benefits of Hiring a North Carolina Injury Law Firm to Handle Your Gastonia Pedestrian Accident Case
A law firm like Rosensteel Fleishman brings more than just courtroom experience—they bring clarity and a plan. When facing an investigation or legal process, families benefit from:
- Clear communication about rights and responsibilities
- Help collecting evidence or witness statements
- Coordination with law enforcement and insurance
- Filing wrongful death or injury claims, if applicable
- Providing emotional space to grieve while the legal team handles the process
All of this is done with an approach that prioritizes the needs of the family without adding more stress to an already overwhelming time.
What Does a Gastonia Accident Lawyer Do? How Can They Help?
A Gastonia personal injury attorney can help by assessing whether there is any liability beyond what is obvious. Even in cases where a driver is not charged, there may still be grounds for a civil claim or further investigation. Attorneys work to gather traffic camera footage, witness accounts, police reports, and more to fully understand what happened.
Legal teams also take on communication with insurance companies, often a major hurdle for families who are already dealing with grief or trauma. Whether seeking compensation for funeral costs, hospital bills, or emotional damages, having a car accident lawyer in Gastonia simplifies the process.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Be Helpful After a Pedestrian Accident in Gastonia, NC
In the case of the Jenkins family, had legal counsel been involved early, the course of investigation and representation may have taken a different direction. Even when criminal charges are involved, a personal injury attorney in Gastonia, NC can assist in navigating court proceedings, plea discussions, or alternative legal avenues.
Families who have suffered a loss often don’t know where to start. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Gastonia provides a starting point, helping them assess what legal steps can be taken to seek justice or financial support in the wake of tragedy.
How Rosensteel Fleishman Can Support Families After Pedestrian Accidents Like the One in Gastonia
The case of Legend Jenkins is a heartbreaking example of how fast tragedy can strike, and how quickly families can find themselves facing legal consequences in addition to grief. For parents, guardians, and others affected by pedestrian accidents, working with a law firm that understands both the human and legal sides of the situation is critical.
Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers has handled difficult pedestrian accident cases throughout North Carolina. They understand the emotional strain on families and offer support that goes beyond paperwork and courtrooms. They’re there to explain the legal process in plain language, so people aren’t left confused or overwhelmed.
This kind of help is especially important in cases involving children, where the legal system can be particularly complex. Families benefit from having someone on their side who will examine the facts, advocate for their rights, and offer thoughtful guidance without pressure. If you're in Gastonia or the surrounding area and need to talk with a lawyer about a similar situation, reaching out to Rosensteel Fleishman is a practical first step.
Choosing Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Accident & Injury Case in North Carolina
When you're facing the stress of an accident—especially one involving a child or serious injury—you want someone in your corner who knows what they're doing. That’s why so many families across North Carolina turn to Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers. Based in Charlotte, their team of experienced attorneys handles cases all over the state, including cities like Gastonia.
Corey Rosensteel, one of the firm’s founding attorneys, said it best: “People come to us during the worst times of their lives. It’s our job to make those times a little easier by being there, answering their questions, and helping them get through it.” That down-to-earth attitude is exactly why the firm continues to be a trusted choice for families dealing with pedestrian and car accidents.
Whether you're searching for a pedestrian accident lawyer in Gastonia or need help with a car accident claim, Rosensteel Fleishman offers straightforward legal help that puts your needs first. They work hard, communicate clearly, and always focus on what’s best for their clients.
Start with a Free Consultation by Calling 1-704-714-1450
If you or someone you care about has been involved in a serious accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. The team at Rosensteel Fleishman offers free consultations, so there’s no cost to talk with someone and see what your options are. Just call 1-704-714-1450 to get started.
Their experience handling pedestrian and car accident cases across North Carolina—including tragic events like the one in Gastonia—means they’re ready to help when it matters most. Whether you're dealing with medical bills, legal questions, or just trying to figure out what to do next, they’ll walk you through it step-by-step. Reach out today and see how they can help you move forward.
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