Introduction to the Incident
A motorist was released without criminal charges after a 9-year-old boy was fatally struck Thursday morning outside an Austin elementary school on the city’s West Side, police said. The driver of the sedan, a Chicago woman, was initially taken into custody but was released and given a citation for failure to exercise due care for a pedestrian in the roadway, police said.
Details of the Accident
The boy, Anakin Perez, was on his way to McNair Elementary School when he was struck, said Chicago police and 37th Ward Ald. Emma Mitts. He was in the street in the 4800 block of West Walton Street around 7:40 a.m., when he was hit by a light-colored Chevrolet sedan, according to Chicago police. Crossing guards were on site at the time he was hit, Mitts said in a statement.
Aftermath and Response
The boy was taken to Stroger Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 8:21 a.m., according to the Cook County medical examiner’s office. Mitts extended her condolences to Perez’s family, classmates and school staff. “The loss of a child is a devastating pain that words cannot heal,” she wrote in a statement. “I offer my heartfelt condolences to everyone impacted by this disturbing event and hope that the cherished moments the Perez’s family shared will live on in their memories forever.”
School and Community Reaction
Chicago Public Schools confirmed the death of one of its students but didn’t confirm the student’s identity. “Our hearts are heavy with grief for this child as well as concern and deep sympathy for his family and loved ones,” the district said in a statement. Grief counselors will be at the school this week, according to a letter from McNair Principal Benetrice Whitfield to parents and guardians. Members of the district’s crisis team will be at the school as long as they’re needed, CPS said. “This tragic loss is sure to raise many emotions, concerns and questions for the entire school, especially our students,” Whitfield wrote.
Conclusion
The incident outside McNair Elementary School highlights the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance, especially in areas where children are present. The community’s response, including the provision of grief counselors, demonstrates a commitment to supporting those affected by the tragedy. As the city mourns the loss of a young life, it also serves as a reminder to prioritize safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
FAQs
- Q: What happened to the driver of the sedan?
A: The driver, a Chicago woman, was initially taken into custody but was later released with a citation for failure to exercise due care for a pedestrian in the roadway. - Q: Who was the victim?
A: The victim was 9-year-old Anakin Perez, a student on his way to McNair Elementary School. - Q: What measures are being taken to support the school community?
A: Grief counselors and members of the district’s crisis team will be available at the school to support students, staff, and families affected by the tragedy. - Q: What was the cause of the accident?
A: The accident occurred when the boy was struck by a light-colored Chevrolet sedan in the street where he was present. - Q: What is the response from the local authorities and school district?
A: Both the local authorities and the school district have expressed condolences and are providing support to those affected, with an emphasis on ensuring safety and providing counseling services.
