Family devastated after son killed by car in San Jose mall parking lot

SAN JOSE, Calif. (KGO) -- A San Jose family is devastated after their child died when he was hit by a car at the Westfield Oakridge Mall.

The family was heading back to the car when it happened.

On the eve of the holiday weekend, customers at Westfield Oakridge remain in disbelief.

"This is like a safe place, right? Going to the mall, you shouldn't worry at all," said Daly City resident Giancarlo Acero.

Around 9:30 Thursday night, police say a family, including a young boy, who was holding hands with his mother and sister, were hit in the parking lot while walking back to their car.

Police say the driver of a 2015 gray Mercedes, who was moving at a low rate of speed, was responsible for the accident.

"The driver of the Mercedes did stop, and is cooperating with the investigation. We currently don't believe drugs were a factor in the collision. It's just a very, very tragic situation, a tragic incident," San Jose police Officer Albert Morales.

The 6-year-old boy, who has been identified as Aniket Gadre, and his mother were rushed to the hospital, where the child was pronounced dead.

Police say the area of the mall is often congested, and they aren't sure if the driver was distracted, or maybe didn't see the family because it was dark outside.

Many shoppers are in disbelief.

"It breaks my heart. I can't imagine a mother losing a child right in front of their own eyes, it's really sad that she had to go through that, especially being next to the child," said San Jose resident Paola Macias.

The family is requesting privacy as they deal with their unimaginable loss. Police are asking for witnesses to step forward with information, and will be reviewing the mall's surveillance video.

"Just be very careful, you know, when you're crossing the street. Look left and right, cause you might be paying attention, but drivers don't, sometimes," Acero said.

A reminder to always be aware of your surroundings.