An Oklahoma City community is grappling with a profound loss after a 6-year-old boy was tragically hit and killed by a school bus. The Oklahoma City Police Department confirmed that the incident, which involved a first grader from Fillmore Elementary School, occurred at around 3:15 p.m. on Wednesday. The collision took place at Southwest 51st Street and Douglas Avenue when the boy, after alighting the bus, ran in front of it as it turned, reported The Oklahoman.
Local station News9 spoke to Orlando Bonilla, a neighbor who witnessed the aftermath, stating, "When I got here, I saw medics working on the child. He appeared, whenever they were putting him in the ambulance, he appeared that he was not moving. He wasn’t conscious at all," said News9. "It was devastating to see a child go that young." Parents and community members expressed their shock and sorrow, with Michael Morgan adding, “I wouldn’t know how to take that if one of my kids was run over by school bus like that. That is very sad and like I said, I’m praying for the family."
The school district shared its condolences, with Oklahoma City Public Schools officials issuing a statement acknowledging the heart-wrenching event. "Our thoughts are with the student’s family, loved ones, the first responders and our entire Fillmore community as we grieve this tremendous loss," the statement read. In their response to the tragedy, OKCPS promised to provide counselors and additional support staff at the school to help students and staff members cope, as detailed by The Oklahoman.
Neighbors to the scene of the accident have expressed their devastation and concern. One family, too emotional for an interview, told KFOR about the immediate urge to embrace their own children tightly, understanding the fragility of life. "I can’t imagine, I don’t want to imagine it," one mother said. "It just makes me want to hold my own son’s a little tighter." Vonnie Wells, a neighbor, voiced her condolences: “We’re sorry for your loss and we’re praying for you.” She also called for action to make the roads safer for children in her community.
As the investigation into the child's death continues, the tragedy has left a deep impact on the neighborhood, where residents are grieving a young life lost and a family enduring unimaginable pain. According to statements provided to local media, the OKCPD is working to determine responsibility in the incident. As the case develops, the school district and community members are looking for answers and finding support in one another during this difficult time.
