Toddler dies after incident at family's South Shore auto shop

The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.

Officials on the South Shore of Massachusetts are investigating the death of a toddler, who was fatally injured in an incident involving a piece of heavy machinery at a family-owned auto repair shop in Cohasset.

The incident happened at about 12:30 p.m. Thursday at Hajj Auto Care at 55 South Main St., which is a long-time business run by a Hull family.

Authorities said the victim, a 2-year-old boy, suffered a substantial injury in an incident involving a skid-steer loader that was being operated behind the auto shop.

Police said the boy's grandfather drove the injured child to the police station. From there, the boy was taken to South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, where he was later pronounced dead.

"The child was actually injured (at the shop) and brought to the police station, which is right around the corner. The grandfather, you know, ran into the station with the child. The child was transported from the station, which is attached to the fire station, and transported to South Shore Hospital," said Cohasset police Chief William Quigley.

Mel McLaughlin, owner of The Barrel Country Market across the street, said she would often see the boy in her store, always at his grandfather's side.

"He was kind, gentle, very excited to be here and excited to be with his grandpa at all times," McLaughlin said. "The little boy followed him everywhere and (his grandfather) was just trying to mentor him, teach him good manners, teach him to look at people in the eye, teach him to use his quarter to pay for two pieces of candy. There was definitely an unconditional love. That is why the story itself is that much more heartbreaking."

"I really hope that they can stay strong and have each other's love and support because it's really said," said Lisa Wrin, the owner of another neighboring business.

The Norfolk County District Attorney's Office and Cohasset police said the incident appears to be a tragic accident, but it remains under investigation.

Police said first responders also later went to the auto shop to assist a worker who was upset after witnessing the incident.

"Subsequently, there was a separate medical aid here for a person who witnessed this event," Quigley said.

From Sky5, yellow tape was seen surrounding Hajj Auto Care, as well as multiple vehicles, heavy equipment and tires in the shop’s lot.

The Occupational Health and Safety Administration is also involved in the investigation because the incident happened at a work site.