In a tragic turn of events, parents Jessica and Sameule Jenkins have been charged with involuntary manslaughter after their 7-year-old son, Legend, was fatally struck by a vehicle while walking home unaccompanied in Gastonia, North Carolina.

The Jenkins’ decision to allow their children to walk home alone from a nearby grocery store has drawn legal scrutiny, resulting in charges that could have significant implications for parental responsibilities and child safety. As local authorities stress the importance of adult accountability for children's welfare, the case highlights the dangers of unsupervised child independence. Meanwhile, the family faces a $1.5 million bond and is barred from attending their son's funeral, amplifying the tragedy of an incident that left the community in shock.

The incident occurred on May 27, 2025, around 6 p.m. when Legend Jenkins and his 10-year-old brother were walking home from a Food Lion grocery store located just two blocks away. As they traversed the road, Legend was struck by a Jeep driven by a 76-year-old woman, who has since been cleared of any wrongdoing. Authorities reported that there was no evidence of speeding or negligence on the part of the driver, which means she will not face any charges related to the incident.

Witnesses at the scene described the harrowing moments that followed the collision. Summer Williams, a bystander, rushed to Legend's side, attempting to provide comfort until paramedics arrived. According to reports, Legend was subsequently transported to a hospital for treatment but later succumbed to his injuries, leaving the community and his family heartbroken.

In the wake of their son's tragic death, parents Jessica and Sameule Jenkins were arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter, which is a legal accusation that suggests they may have acted with criminal negligence. Police indicated that the decision to allow their children to walk home alone has come under intense scrutiny as it raises questions about parental responsibilities and child safety in the community. Officials emphasized the necessity for adults to create a safe environment for their children, further stressing the implications of this case for other families in similar situations.

Jessica Ivey, the mother, expressed her devastation over the loss of her son, revealing the emotional toll the incident has taken on her family. In public statements, she described the situation as shocking and unimaginable, reflecting the overwhelming grief shared by the Jenkins family. They are now navigating not only the heartache of losing a child but also the legal ramifications of their choices as parents.

Compounding their distress, the Jenkins family has been assigned a bond of $1.5 million. Reports indicate that this bond has denied them the ability to attend their son's funeral, further deepening the family's sorrow. Local community members and advocates are now grappling with the legal precedents this case may set as well as the emotional impact of such a loss within familial units.

In the aftermath, Sameule Jenkins, the father, has taken to crowdfunding platforms, launching a GoFundMe page for his son's funeral expenses. This initiative has received attention as it illustrates the family's need for support during this incredibly difficult time. As donations flow in from sympathizers, many are reminded of the importance of community solidarity in times of grief.

As the legal proceedings move forward, the Jenkins’ case will not only impact their family but also raise critical discussions about child safety laws and the extent to which parents are accountable for their children's actions. With members of the community calling for stricter measures to protect children, this incident may serve as a pivotal moment for future regulations surrounding child supervision and public safety.