San Jose, California (April 21, 2026) — An 18-month-old boy was killed Tuesday evening after being struck by a taxi cab at a townhome complex in San Jose, according to authorities.
Officials identified the child as Olivier Carmelo Sgarlata.
The fatal crash happened at about 4:23 p.m. at the Canoas Garden Townhomes complex off Canoas Garden Avenue, near Almaden Expressway.
Incident Details: According to San Jose police, a taxi cab driver was traveling forward in the driveway of the townhome complex when the vehicle struck Olivier, who was walking in front of his home. The driver remained at the scene after the collision.
Authorities said investigators are still working to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including why the taxi was inside the complex and whether the driver was attempting to pick up a passenger. Police do not believe drugs or alcohol were factors.
Footage from the scene showed several evidence markers near a home in the complex, though officials have not said what those markers represented. An airport taxi cab was also seen behind police tape. A representative for Airport Taxi Cab Bay Area declined to comment because the investigation remains pending.
Neighbors expressed grief and concern after the tragedy. One resident placed flowers at the scene, and others noted that many children live in the complex. Residents also urged drivers to use extra caution in residential areas where young children may be present.
Investigation: This investigation likely centers on how a taxi in a residential driveway hit a young child, with questions beyond vehicle speed. Investigators may examine the driver’s line of sight, vehicle position, travel direction, child’s pre-impact location, and any view obstructions.
A townhome driveway differs from a major road. Drivers in residential areas must watch for pedestrians, including children and residents, as well as parked cars and shared drive areas. When an 18-month-old is involved, investigators should assess if the driver exercised proper caution.
Authorities may examine if the taxi driver was distracted, if the vehicle was stopping or starting, if mirrors or cameras were used, and if nearby surveillance footage captured the moments before the collision. They might also review dispatch, app, phone records, or passenger communications to understand why the vehicle was in the complex and what the driver was doing immediately before impact.
Legal Considerations: Fatal pedestrian crashes involving children raise questions about driver attention and care. Since the vehicle was a taxi, investigators should consider if the driver was working and whether any taxi company, dispatch, or insurer is involved. Not every party is responsible, but investigations shouldn’t rely solely on the driver’s statement. Commercial cases often examine employment, vehicle ownership, insurance, policies, driver training, dispatch records, and the driver’s purpose at the complex, as these influence accountability.
Pending the investigation’s findings, Olivier’s family may pursue a wrongful death claim, which may help address funeral and burial expenses and the devastating loss of Olivier’s young life. No legal process can fully measure that kind of loss. But it can help a grieving family obtain answers, preserve evidence, and hold the responsible party accountable if negligence caused this tragedy.
I extend my deepest condolences to Olivier Carmelo Sgarlata’s family and loved ones.
Source: KTVU