Cream Ridge, New Jersey — A family outing to a pumpkin patch ended in tragedy after a 2-year-old boy was struck and killed by a vehicle in a farm parking lot, while his grandmother was also reportedly injured in the crash.
James Gabriel died on October 3 following the incident at Bullock Farms and Screamin’ Hill Brewery in Cream Ridge, part of Upper Freehold Township, according to NJ.com, which cited New Jersey State Police.
The crash happened at approximately 11:07 a.m. on Emleys Hills Road as the family visited the farm for a day of pumpkin picking. What was supposed to be a happy fall outing has since left the family and the surrounding community grieving the loss of a young child.
What Happened at the New Jersey Pumpkin Patch?
According to the reports, James and his grandmother, Ellen Gabriel, a resident of Roselle Park, New Jersey, were struck when a driver in a Chrysler SUV backed out of a parking space.
The toddler suffered fatal injuries, while his grandmother was transported to Jersey Shore Medical Center for emergency medical treatment.
Authorities have not publicly identified the driver, and it remains unclear whether criminal charges have been filed in connection with the incident. The investigation was ongoing at the time of the report.
The circumstances surrounding the collision, including how the vehicle struck the two family members, have not been fully detailed publicly.
The incident occurred during the fall season, when farms across New Jersey attract families for pumpkin picking and other seasonal activities.
Father Remembers His Son After the Fatal Crash
James’ father, Robert Gabriel, described the devastating impact of losing his son during what had been planned as an ordinary family day.
“Everybody’s devastated,” James’ father, Robert Gabriel, told.
He also recalled how the family had expected to enjoy pumpkin picking before returning home to watch football.
“He was as healthy as could be. He was as happy as could be. We were going there to have a good day. Pumpkin picking and then coming back to my house and watching football.”
His words capture the sudden change from a family outing filled with anticipation to a tragedy that has permanently changed their lives.
For James’ parents and relatives, the loss means saying goodbye to a child whose life had only just begun.
Obituary Describes Toddler’s Smile and Loving Personality
James’ obituary remembered him as a joyful child whose presence brought happiness to those around him.
It described the toddler as having a “beautiful smile that could brighten any room and a personality much bigger than his little two-year-old body.” The obituary also highlighted the love and happiness he brought to his family from the moment he was born.
“James brought immeasurable joy, laughter, and love into the lives of his family from the moment he entered the world,” the obituary reads. “Though his time with us was far too short, the love he gave and the happiness he brought into our lives will last forever. His memory will remain with us for many lifetimes.”
James was also remembered as a cherished big brother to his younger sister, Evelyn.
According to the family’s fundraising description, the two siblings shared a birthday, two years apart. James had spent four months with his baby sister before his death.
Family Shares Memories of the Things James Loved
A GoFundMe campaign established by the family to help cover memorial expenses offered further insight into the toddler’s personality and the everyday moments that made him special.
“He was our beautiful little boy—curious, energetic, playful, affectionate, and so deeply loved,” the GoFundMe description reads.
James reportedly enjoyed the children’s cartoon Bluey, as well as trucks, cars and planes. He also liked helping his father with projects around the house and eating his mother’s homemade dumplings.
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These memories reflect the small but meaningful parts of family life that his loved ones will carry with them.
The fundraising campaign is intended to help cover funeral and memorial expenses, time away from work so relatives can grieve together, legal expenses associated with the tragedy and other unexpected financial burdens. Any remaining funds are intended to support a meaningful way to honor James and preserve his memory.
Upper Freehold Community Mourns the Toddler
The tragedy has also affected the wider Upper Freehold community.
Mayor Stanley Moslowski told that the community was heartbroken by James’ death, describing the incident as an event unlike anything the town had experienced before.
“We obviously never had anything like that happen in our town,” Moslowski said, per the outlet. “You go out to have a happy day with young kids, and it turns into a tragedy.”
According to the report, Bullock Farms employees were offered counseling resources following the fatal incident.
As the investigation continues, the family is left to grieve a young life lost far too soon. James’ obituary and the memories shared by his relatives offer a glimpse of the joy he brought to those who knew him.
What should communities and seasonal attractions do to improve pedestrian safety in busy farm parking lots? Share your thoughts and condolences for James’ family in the comments below.
