3-year-old dies after vehicle struck mom, 3 children in Westwood

CINCINNATI - One child is dead and two other people were injured after a vehicle struck a mother and her three children who were walking early Monday morning in Westwood.

Rodriguez Taylor, 3, was taken to Children’s Hospital Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries.

Police said 35-year-old Sheba Basabosa lost control of her car which crossed over the double yellow lines and ran up onto the sidewalk in the 3000 block of McHenry Avenue at about 4:45 a.m. Basabosa hit the mother and her children who were in a stroller. Police said alcohol was believed to have been a factor in the accident. Basabosa was charged with operating a vehicle impaired.

Injured in the crash were 1-year-old Ricardo Taylor, who was listed in stable condition at Children’s Hospital Medical Center, and the children's mother, 31-year-old Jocelyn Austin who was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

Officials closed the intersection of McHenry and Harrison avenues to traffic while crews work to clear the scene and investigate the crash.

Basabosa was taken into police custody and questioned at District 3 headquarters. She stayed at the scene of the crash, according to officials.

Neighbors created an impromptu memorial of stuffed animals Monday night for the victims.

"Because I've got three grandchildren of my own, I just feel sorry for the mother, losing that baby. I just lost my mom and my dad and I know what heartache is," said Claudia Foreman.

The grandmother of the victims, Janet Austin, told 9 News that 1-year-old Ricardo suffered cuts and bruises and remains in stable condition at Children's Hospital. One of her grandchildren, a 5-year-old boy who was not injured in the incident, is staying with his father.

The owner of the apartment building where Austin and her children live said she was shocked when she heard what happened.

"It's heartbreaking. I have chills, you know. I have chills. It's horrible to hear about the child, and I just can't imagine. Just can't imagine," said Adrianne Sontag.

Police say other charges may be filed against Basabosa once the investigation is complete.

Stay with 9 News and WCPO.com for updates as they become available.

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