HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- A little girl has died after a driver hit her Thursday night on Staples Mill Road, near Townhouse Road, in Henrico County, according to police.
The crash was reported at about 10:45 p.m. as a thunderstorm moved through Central Virginia.
"The preliminary crash investigation indicates the toddler had walked away from her home nearby and into the eastbound lanes of Staples Mill Road where she was hit," a Henrico Police spokesperson said. "The driver of the Honda remained on the scene and is cooperating with investigators. Speed and alcohol do not appear to be factors in this crash.
Henrico Police are now investigating both the crash and the circumstances under which the child left the home.
"The preliminary investigation indicates the child was left in the care of a babysitter. Due to the sensitive nature of this case, details will be released when appropriate," the spokesperson said.
WATCH: New information about toddler killed after wandering onto Henrico road during storm
"We are at a loss for words about what unfolded last night,” Henrico County Police Division Assistant Chief Lauren Edwards said. “Any time a crash or violent crime ends in a death is a horrible result, but to have a child as the victim is even more difficult to comprehend. Our detectives are trained to thoroughly investigate each case they are assigned, and that will continue in this instance as our community tries to heal from this tragic event."
CBS 6 Crime Insider Jon Burkett was at the scene of the crash Thursday night into Friday morning.
"When I hear things like this, it hits home," Burkett said, "I have grandkids this age, and it's just terribly sad."
Watch: Jon Burkett reports live from crash scene
The crash closed lanes on Staples Mill Road during the Thursday night investigation.
Anyone with information was asked to call Henrico Police at 804-501-5000.
This is a developing story. Email the CBS 6 Newsroom if you have additional information to share.
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