Parents and neighbors rushed to Washington Middle School in Seattle on Thursday after learning that a 12-year-old student had died in a tragic accident on campus. According to district officials, the girl was walking to recess shortly after lunch when she was fatally struck by a rolling vehicle.
Seattle Police Assistant Chief Todd Kibbee stated that preliminary investigations suggest the vehicle had been left in an improper gear, causing it to roll backward down a hill. The rolling vehicle struck the student, leading to fatal injuries. Authorities are still reviewing the circumstances surrounding the incident.
As part of standard investigative procedures, police evaluated the driver for any potential drug or alcohol impairment. No further details regarding the driver’s condition or potential charges have been released.
Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and assured that the district is providing support to affected students, staff, and families. A care team has been deployed to help those struggling with the emotional impact of the incident.
During the police investigation, the school initiated a shelter-in-place order to ensure the safety of students and staff. As a precaution, the school dismissed students early for the day. Many parents, upon reuniting with their children, were seen holding their hands tightly as they walked home, visibly shaken by the event.
The tragedy has deeply affected the local community, with many expressing their disbelief. Tiffanie, a nearby resident, said that nothing like this had ever happened in the neighborhood before. She described seeing children walking past her in tears, their heads down in shock. Parents picking up their children were also in disbelief upon hearing the heartbreaking news.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, and the school district remains focused on supporting students and families as they process the loss of a young life.
