MAMARONECK, N.Y. — A kindergarten student was struck and killed by a school bus on Thursday while walking to school with his mother in suburban New York, authorities said.
The crash happened just after 8:30 a.m. in the village of Mamaroneck in Westchester County.
The boy and his mother were walking to to Mamaroneck Avenue Elementary School when they were hit by a yellow minibus.
The child was killed and the mother was taken to a hospital for treatment, officials with the Mamaroneck Union Free School District said in a statement.
“There is nothing more difficult for a community to experience than the loss of life, and we know that everyone in the Mamaroneck and Larchmont communities is heartbroken by this news,” the school district officials said.
The Journal News reports that a Royal Coach Lines minibus was parked at the crash site about half a block from the school with a yellow backpack about 20 feet (6 meters) behind it. The bus was later towed and the backpack was removed and put in a police vehicle.
School district officials said counseling would be available at the school on Friday.
Royal Coach Lines, a regional school bus contractor, has not responded to an email seeking comment on the crash.
A tragic accident occurred this morning as a kindergarten student was fatally struck by a school bus while walking with his mother to school. The incident has left the community in shock and mourning the loss of a young life.
The accident took place at a busy intersection near the school, where the school bus was making a turn. The young child, who was holding his mother’s hand, was hit by the bus and suffered fatal injuries. Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite their best efforts, the child could not be saved.
The mother, who witnessed the horrific accident, is said to be in a state of shock and disbelief. She is being offered support and counseling to help her cope with the trauma of losing her child in such a tragic way.
The school district has released a statement expressing their deepest condolences to the family of the child and assuring the community that they are cooperating fully with the authorities in their investigation of the accident. The bus driver involved in the incident has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
This tragic accident serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety, especially in areas where children are present. Parents and caregivers are urged to take extra precautions when walking with young children near busy roads or intersections. Drivers are reminded to always be vigilant and cautious, especially in school zones where children may be present.
The loss of a young life in such a senseless and tragic manner is truly heartbreaking. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the child during this difficult time. May they find comfort and strength in the support of their loved ones and the community as they grieve this devastating loss.
