THREE-year-old Gideon Booker tragically died after being hit by a van in Wimborne – and a community fundraiser has been launched to support them through “unimaginable sorrow”.

The incident occurred in Cutlers Place at around 1.54pm on Friday (April 11), near the junction with Middlehill Road, and involved a Ford Transit van and a young child pedestrian, police said.

“Emergency services attended and, very sadly, the child was pronounced dead at the scene,” a Dorset Police spokesperson said.

“His family has been informed and are being supported by specially-trained officers.”

Road closures were put in place to allow the emergency services to respond to the incident and for a detailed examination of the collision scene to be carried out.

Inspector Joe Wheable, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “First and foremost our thoughts and hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the young child who very sadly died in this collision.

“We are continuing to carry out a detailed investigation to establish the full circumstances of what happened.

“I would urge any witnesses who have not already spoke to police, or anyone who may have captured relevant dashcam footage, to please make contact with us.

“Finally, I would like to thank members of the public for their patience and understanding during the road closures.”

Gideon, three, died after the tragic crash in Wimborne on Friday. Pictures: GoFundMe

Now, a fundraiser has been launched to help the family through this difficult time.

Family friend Natacha Dunne, who has launched the fundraiser, said it came after “the Booker family’s world changed forever”. “No parent should ever have to face the pain of losing a child, and yet here they are — walking through unimaginable sorrow with quiet strength and grace,” she said.

“Gideon was full of joy and sweetness. He loved Bob the Builder, Thomas the Tank Engine, cuddles, and dinosaurs.

“His smile lit up every room he entered, and his presence brought warmth and laughter to all who knew him.

“As a community, we want to rally around the Booker family; Mike, Becky, and their children Willow, Bear, Jojo, Harriet, and Micaela during this deeply painful time.

“Our hope is to bless them in tangible ways, to ease the burden of practical needs while they grieve, rest, and begin the long journey of healing.”

The fundraiser would help cover funeral and memorial costs, she said, as well as “any unexpected expenses that come with such a tragic loss”.

“We know that no amount of money can take away the pain — but our love, prayers, and generosity can lighten the load,” she added.

“Whether you’re able to give financially, pray, share memories, or simply hold this family in your heart — thank you. Every act of kindness is a gift of grace.”

At the time of writing, the appeal had raised more than £24,000. You can find out more about the GoFundMe appeal HERE.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, by email to scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 11:266. They can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.