Toddler hit by air conditioner that fell from 8-storey Toronto building dies in hospital
2½-year-old girl was in a stroller at the time, police say
The family of a toddler who was struck and killed by a falling air conditioner in Toronto on Monday say they are devastated by the loss of their "precious baby girl," and are asking for privacy to grieve.
"We wanted to thank the public for the outpouring of support for our family while we are struggling to cope with this tragedy," the family said in a statement late Tuesday.
Crystal Mirogho was in a stroller being pushed by her mother when the unit plummeted from the eighth storey of a building in Scarborough, said Const. Caroline de Kloet on Tuesday. Crystal was two and a half years old. She died later in hospital.
The building is run by Toronto Community Housing (TCH), the city's social housing agency.
De Kloet initially said the girl was four years old, but later revised the information.
There are currently no charges pending, she added. The family said they have hired a lawyer.
Speaking to reporters, Toronto Mayor John Tory called the death a "terrible tragedy."
"My thoughts are with the family involved and the people in that building. I'm sure it is traumatizing for them."
Tory said police and TCH will do a "thorough investigation" on what may have led to the air conditioner coming loose and plunging to the ground.
On its website, TCH warns tenants about the dangers posed by window AC units.
"Improperly installed window air conditioners are a serious safety hazard to you and your family, and can fall onto other people."
TCH also says tenants must get permission to install the units and they should be placed over balconies whenever possible.
"You may be held liable for injuries or property damage from improperly installed window air conditioners," TCH's website says.
