When they were crossing the street, kindergarten students were hit by a van.
This morning in Pollock Pines, California, five preschoolers tragically lost their lives in a collision with a passing van.
The kids were crossing the street in the designated crosswalk when it happened, witnesses said in heartbreaking detail as they described the tragic incident.
Three children were reportedly seriously hurt, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). In the same incident, the other two also received minor injuries, according to KOVR and NBC station KCRA-TV.
Local law enforcement showed up soon after the collision. According to KXTV and KCRA-TV reports, the negligent driver, a 21-year-old man, stayed on the scene and cooperated with police. Currently, law enforcement authorities are looking into the circumstances of the incident.
Children who had suffered injuries were rushed to several medical facilities.
Notably, two kids with severe wounds were taken to the UC Davis Medical Center, known for its expertise in critical care.
A second child, who was also critically ill, received care at Sutter Roseville Medical Center. In the interim, Marshall Medical Center received two patients: a child and a female with minor wounds.
The Pine Top Montessori school for the impacted kids sent its sincere apologies to the impacted families. We sincerely hope for their quick recovery,” the school reportedly said, according to KXTV. With our families, we think and pray. ”.
In order to address the situation and provide support during this trying time, they made it clear that they are in close contact with the relevant authorities and the parents.
On the GoFundMe page, Juniper Ammons, the 4-year-old seriously injured in the tragedy, is described as battling serious head injuries and being on a ventilator by her aunt, Jillian Leach.
In less than 48 hours, website traffic increased noticeably, and more than $53,000 was donated. Jillian recalls that Catie and Trevor, Juniper’s parents, have been by her side ever since she arrived at the hospital.
Aunt Allison Warren’s statement to KXTV that Juniper’s condition has stabilized gave people hope. “Right now, that’s all we can ask for,” she continued, emphasizing the family’s interest in and concern for her wellbeing”.
Warren referred to the tenacious four-year-old as a “ray of sunshine” who effortlessly brightens every situation. Her mature understanding and soulfulness frequently make those around her laugh.
The El Dorado Community Foundation has also made an effort to raise money for the families impacted by this tragic accident through the Community Resource Fund.
According to their official website, the organization strives to lessen the burdens placed on the families while also acknowledging that no amount of financial support can undo the harm already done.
Authorities initially claimed that they did not believe that the collision was caused by intoxication, drug use, or excessive speeding. According to KCRA-TV, they actively look into the possibility that distracted driving may have been a contributing factor.
As the investigation goes on, more information about the events leading up to this unfortunate catastrophe will become more clear. The CHP had yet to respond to PEOPLE’s request for a quick comment at the time of publication, highlighting the significance of conducting a thorough investigation before making any official statements.
