Girl Who Died After Being Hit By Family Vehicle in Phelan Identified

Staff Writer

Monday, February 6th, 2017

PHELAN – Emilia Gilbert, 5, lost her life on Sunday afternoon after being hit by an SUV with trailer driven by her father.

CHP officials said that shortly before 2:25 p.m. Emilia was sitting in the back of the trailer that was carrying three bales of hay. She sat in the back with two of her siblings while her father, Andres Gilbert drove the Chevrolet Tahoe that was pulling it. As he began to back the vehicle Emilia decided to get out of the trailer. Emilia fell between the trailer and SUV before her siblings could help her as her father continued to back the vehicle accidentally running over the small girl.

The inconsolable family called 911 to report the incident and telling dispatchers that Emilia did not appear to be awake or breathing. Her father began giving her CPR and medics arrived a short time later to take over. She was rushed to Desert Valley Hospital where she was pronounced dead as a result of her injuries.

The family is understandably devastated by the loss, but now they must also face the costs associated with laying little Emilia to rest. A Go Fund Me account had been started to help the family with finances as they attempt to heal from their loss.