JACINTO CITY, Texas – Authorities are investigating after a 9-year-old boy was struck and killed by the driver of a van who had just dropped him off at home, according to Jacinto City police.
The tragic accident happened around 3 p.m. in the 10500 block of Pillot Street.
According to Police Chief Joe Ayala, the 9-year-old and several other children were on a private van that was transporting them home after school.
When the boy arrived at his destination, he exited and crossed in front of the van. The driver did not see the child and struck him.
“We ran inside to go get a blanket, put it over, that way the kids wouldn’t see what happened,” witness Daniel Chairez said. “The little kids were crying and the bus driver, she just had her hands on her head freaking out.”
The boy sustained head trauma and died from his injuries. He was just one house away from his residence.
Police were seen going door-to-door looking for surveillance video on Wednesday evening.
Several children were inside the van when the accident occurred. They all attended Jacinto City Elementary School.
“This news is understandably devastating, and this tragedy will deeply affect the Jacinto City and Galena Park ISD communities as the student will be missed by all. Together, we will support each other,” school principal Rebecca Gardea wrote in a letter to families. “We encourage you to talk with your child as it is important for students to express their feelings. Traumatic events, like the loss of a friend or peer, can trigger emotional responses that may require counseling support.”
Galena Park ISD’s Crisis Response Team and the school’s counselor are available to students and staff if needed.
The driver was questioned at the scene. It’s not clear yet if charges will be filed.