Hammond is mourning the loss of a little girl whose life ended far too soon. Kay’Lee Hawkins, just 7 years old, died Wednesday evening after a devastating traffic incident along Wallace Road. Her death has shaken families across the city and left a neighborhood searching for answers and comfort.
According to the Lake County Coroner’s Office, Kay’Lee was taken to Munster Community Hospital after being struck by a vehicle in the 5900 block of Wallace Road. The coroner was called to the hospital shortly before 7:45 p.m., where the child was pronounced dead despite urgent medical care.
Hammond police and fire crews rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a child hit by a car. First responders worked quickly, giving aid at the scene before transporting Kay’Lee to the hospital. Even with their efforts, the injuries proved fatal, turning an ordinary evening into a lasting tragedy.
Investigators say the Lake County Coroner’s Office has completed its standard examination, but specific findings have not been released. Authorities stress that the investigation is still active and that every detail is being carefully reviewed to fully understand what happened.
So far, officials have not said whether charges will be filed. Police are continuing to examine evidence, review statements, and reconstruct the scene. They note that cases involving the death of a child take time and must be handled with care and precision.
The loss has rippled through the Hammond community. Neighbors and families have shared messages of grief and support, many struggling to process how quickly a young life was taken. Officials have asked the public to respect the Hawkins family’s privacy as they endure an unimaginable loss.
Local authorities are also using this moment to remind drivers to slow down and stay alert, especially on residential streets. Children are unpredictable, and a few seconds of inattention can change lives forever. Safety, they say, begins with awareness and patience behind the wheel.
Police say they will release updates if new information becomes available. Anyone who witnessed the incident or has helpful details is encouraged to contact the Hammond Police Department through official channels.
As Hammond grieves, the name Kay’Lee Hawkins now carries a quiet weight. A child remembered not for how she died, but for the life and joy she should have been allowed to keep. The community continues to hold her family close in thought as the investigation moves forward.
