O’FALLON, Mo. – There are many broken hearts in the community after a 10-year-old girl was hit and killed by a school bus Thursday afternoon.
Condolences to the family and friends have been pouring in Friday. The victims neighbors are in shock and can’t believe a young life was cut short so soon.
A make-shift memorial continues to grow where the tragedy all unfolded just before 4 p.m. Thursday near Lupine Court and Belleau Creek Road. Residents stopped by all day, bringing stuffed animals, cards and flowers to honor the young Fort Zumwalt student.
“It’s really affecting the whole neighborhood, it’s so tragic. We are neighbors a couple houses down from the family and we just came to pay our respects…we feel helpless in this situation,” neighbor Ava Whiteley said.
The O’Fallon Police Department reported the school bus driver is cooperating.
“We don’t have words for it; heart goes out to the family, and as a parent myself, I can’t even imagine. Certainly, a heartbreaking, tragic accident. No one should have to go through that,” resident Dan Vincent said.
The Fort Zumwalt School District released a statement following the accident, which reads:
“On Thursday, Nov. 7, a Fort Zumwalt student passed away after suffering injuries in an accident involving a school bus. The whole of our community feels this loss. As a district and as a community, we are supporting the student’s family by respecting their privacy at this incredibly difficult time. We are cooperating with the O’Fallon Police Department’s ongoing investigation and appreciate their partnership.
Counselors, Mental Health Professionals, administrators and other staff have been on hand today for students and staff. They are available for anyone who needs to talk, or who just needs a few minutes to process how they are doing.”
“I know many families, friends and neighbors are looking for support at this time, too,” Superintendent Dr. Paul Myers said. “We have shared resources that might help families with the difficult conversations that lie ahead. I encourage any community member who finds themself struggling with this loss to reach out to professionals for assistance.”
Myers added that there have already been inquiries as to how financial or other support can be provided for the family.
“I am comforted in our community’s understanding that the family is asking for privacy, and we are going to give it to them,” he said. “Many have already asked about providing them support. When there is information that we can share, we will be certain to pass it on.”