Little Boy Dies After Car Hits Tricycle In Joliet

JOLIET, IL - A GoFundMe page seeking to raise $3,000 has been established to help the family of Mateo Alvarez cover their son's funeral expenses. Mateo was struck by a car while riding his tricycle shortly before dinner time on Wednesday on Landau Avenue on Joliet's east side. On Friday, the Will County Coroner's Office announced that Mateo was struck by a motor vehicle while riding on his tricycle in the 600 block of Landau. People familiar with the tragedy said the little boy was struck by a relative.

He was rushed to Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox where he was pronounced dead at 3:52 p.m., the coroner's office announced. Thursday's autopsy determined that Mateo died from multiple injuries suffered when his tricycle was hit by the vehicle. The Joliet Police Department is continuing to investigate the circumstances of the fatality, officials said. The coroner's office stated that Mateo was 3 years old at the time of his death. However, the GoFundMe page reported him as being 4 years old.

"Mateo was only a 4yr old precious soul who unfortunately lost his life Feb 28. As you all know this is something people don't save up for. We ask for your help to help the family with the funeral expenses. Thank you all for your help and please keep the family in your prayers," wrote Chenta Hurtado, who established the memorial service fund-raiser for little Mateo on Thursday.

In less than 24 hours, more than $1,510 had already been raised toward the $3,000 goal. A total of 36 people have already given to help Mateo's family.

Several people posted online comments expressing their grief.

"I am so sorry for your loss, I could not even begin to imagine the sadness you feel at this moment. You and your family are in my prayers."

"My condolences go to you and your family. Liz and I are always here. Let us know if you guys need anything."

If you want to donate to Mateo's funeral, you can visit the GoFundMe page right here.

On Friday morning, Joliet Patch left a message with Joliet Police Deputy Chief of Investigations Al Roechner for an update on the investigation.

Image via GoFundMe, secondary image via Joliet resident Bob Hernandez