A tragic accident has claimed the life of a toddler who wandered onto a busy road in Melbourne's south-east.
Police said the two-year-old was trying to cross the road with his father when he was hit and killed by a passing a ute on Stud Road in Dandenong North just after midday today.
Paramedics performed CPR on the child but he died at the scene.
Senior Sergeant David Hewatt said the family was "very upset, very traumatised".
"Obviously involving a young child, it's something that's pretty traumatic and no one wants to be called to that.
Residents told 9News despite there being a bus stop and basketball stadium nearby, there was nowhere to safely cross the road.
"I just think it's awful," Miguel Torres said.
"At least they should install a bridge or an easier way for pedestrians to cross the road."
The driver, a 60-year-old from Gippsland stopped at the scene and was assisting police. He was not in custody.
The exact circumstances of the collision are yet to be determined at this stage.
Anyone who witnessed the collision, with dash cam or CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.