Family in mourning after toddler struck by AC Transit bus in Oakland

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- Oakland police are investigating a terrible accident which killed a two year old boy. Little Jeremiah Esera was playing off 35th Avenue afternoon when he was struck by an AC Transit bus.

There was a scene of unimaginable grief where a little boy was struck and killed by an AC Transit bus around 2 p.m. Tuesday.

"I heard mom cry, 'Help me, help me!' That's when I ran," said neighbor William Roa.

Police say the little boy, identified by family members as two year-old Jeremiah Esera, was playing outside the apartment complex on 35th Avenue when he may have ran into the street and was struck by an AC Transit bus traveling northbound.

Paula Miller is a neighbor. "They said he was running into the street to catch a ball," said Paula Miller. "I'm heartbroken. I was just speaking to his sister right before I went to the doctors. But kids play on the street all the time."

"This is a tragic and sad loss for the family and community," said Oakland police spokesperson Marco Marquez.

The accident is under investigation. AC Transit says its driver has been behind the wheel since 1999. Following protocol, he will undergo drug and alcohol screening. It's still unclear how fast the bus was traveling.

"There is nothing to suggest in preliminary information that speed was a factor here," said AC Transit spokesperson Robert Lyles.

There was road construction happening nearby, causing traffic to slow.

"I'm praying for the family," said one neighbor.

Jeremiah's family requests privacy, but they shared a statement. "Jeremiah was a very rambunctious, lively two year old who loved to run dance and play. He was always helpful and loving showering his family with his sweet hugs and sloppy-face wet kisses. He will be missed dearly."

A GoFundMe page has been set up for the family. Click here if you'd like to make a donation.