James Gabriel, 2, was walking with his grandmother at a New Jersey farm when both were struck in a parking lot.
UPPER FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A 2-year-old boy was killed and his grandmother was seriously injured when a reversing SUV struck them during a family pumpkin-picking outing at a Monmouth County farm, according to New Jersey State Police and the child’s family.
James Gabriel was walking hand in hand with his 66-year-old grandmother, Ellen Gabriel, shortly after the family arrived at Bullock Farms on Oct. 3, authorities said. State police said a Chrysler SUV was backing out of a parking space when it struck both pedestrians at about 11:07 a.m. James suffered fatal injuries. His grandmother was taken to a hospital.
The collision happened in a parking area associated with Bullock Farms and Screamin’ Hill Brewery on Emleys Hill Road in Upper Freehold Township. The family had gone to the farm for a fall outing that was supposed to include pumpkin picking before they returned home later in the day, James’ father, Robert Gabriel, told news outlets.
Robert Gabriel said he was walking a short distance ahead with his infant daughter when the crash occurred. He described the loss of his son as devastating and said the family had expected a simple day together. James, who was affectionately called “Jimmy James” by relatives, was remembered by his parents as an energetic and affectionate child who enjoyed trucks, cars and airplanes.
Accounts of Ellen Gabriel’s condition differed in some early reports. New Jersey State Police said she suffered serious injuries and was transported for medical care. Later reports indicated she survived the crash and was recovering. Authorities have not released extensive details about her treatment or condition.
Police have not publicly identified the driver of the Chrysler SUV. Investigators also have not announced whether any charges or traffic citations will be filed. The New Jersey State Police said the crash remained under investigation as of Friday, and officials had not released additional findings about the circumstances leading up to the collision.
James’ death prompted an outpouring of support for his family. In a fundraising appeal created after the crash, his mother, Meiling Gabriel, described her son as curious, playful and deeply loved. His obituary similarly remembered the toddler for his smile, strong personality and close bond with his father.
The tragedy drew particular attention because it occurred during a seasonal family outing at a farm that attracts visitors for autumn activities. Bullock Farms publicly expressed sadness over the death and described the crash as a tragedy. No evidence released by investigators has suggested that the farm’s seasonal activities played a role in causing the collision.
Family and friends were scheduled to gather Friday for visitation in Freehold Township. A funeral Mass was planned for Saturday morning at the Church of St. Gabriel in Marlboro, followed by burial. The services come one week after the crash that killed James.
New Jersey State Police continued investigating the collision Friday. Authorities had not announced charges against the driver or released additional information about what investigators believe happened before the SUV backed out of the parking space.
Author note: Last updated October 9, 2026.