The 15-month-old boy was with his family at Yarragee Reserve on Tuesday afternoon when he was killed by a horse.

Police say the freak accident happened at about 4pm.

They said the family was on Yarragee Reserve with three horses, which they intended to ride.

They had tied the animals to a fence, but one became “spooked” and broke free of its lead. The horse then slipped, rolled down an embankment and over the toddler.

The child was rushed to hospital, but tragically died from extensive injuries.

The toddler’s name had not been released at the time of going to press.

Police have prepared a report for the coroner, who will investigate the tragedy.