A one-year-old girl, Mkaya Amrani, critically injured in a crash at Excelled Montessori Plus School on December 19, 2024, has succumbed to her injuries. Her father, Pibo Amrani, confirmed her passing to KSAT yesterday. The Montessori school, located in NW Bexar County, was the scene of tragic events as a parent picking up their children after a holiday performance lost control of their vehicle, rammed into another car, and subsequently both cars smashed through a fence into a playground filled with children.
Taken to the hospital on the day of the crash, Mkaya was on life support for two weeks. While they could not be at the preschool during the crash, Mkaya's parents rushed to the scene after receiving the call, only to find her amongst those most severely affected. "Unfortunately, all the kids were recovered except one of the babies and we kind of thought it was her,” Pibo Amrani told KENS 5 while recalling his distressing experience by the ambulance.
The accident also claimed the life of 22-year-old teacher Alexia Rosales. According to officials during a news conference, and subsequently, other children, all roughly one year of age, along with another adult woman, were taken to the hospital. Some were treated and released at the scene. The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office released the identification of Rosales on December 20, 2024.
As the community grapples with the aftermath, the driver suspected of causing the incident has not spoken to investigators, instead referring them to their attorney, as reported by CBS 19. No charges have been filed yet. The BCSO has not disclosed details on the driver's medical condition that may have contributed to the incident. Meanwhile, grieving the loss, Mkaya’s family seeks answers and justice, believing the proximity of the play area to the parking lot is an oversight that could have been prevented.
In a statement to KSAT, Excelled Montessori expressed deep grief and commitment to supporting the impacted families and community: "It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the loss of Mkaya, a beloved member of our school community, following the tragic accident on December 19, 2024." They continued, "Our hearts are with her family as they navigate this unimaginable loss. Mkaya brought light and joy to our school, and her absence leaves a void that cannot be filled."
