SEATTLE, Wash. — The Seattle Police Department says a 12-year-old girl is dead after a crash that happened outside of Washington Middle School.
Seattle Public Schools says that shortly after second lunch, the student was hit by a car while walking to recess.
Police say that around 1 p.m., the car, which did not have a driver inside, rolled about 75 yards backward on 20th Place South, hitting the girl.
The owner of the vehicle is being evaluated for drugs and alcohol, which is standard protocol.
In a statement, Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones said, “My heart is heavy with sorrow as we face the devastating loss of a Washington Middle School student. I am deeply saddened by this tragedy, and my thoughts and condolences are with the student’s family, friends and the entire Washington community during this incredibly difficult time. My heart breaks for those who are grieving. Please know we are here to support each other and will do everything we can to help heal and comfort those in need.”
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Police did not say why the car was left unattended.
The investigation is ongoing.
In a letter to families and staff of Washington Middle School, Principal Adrian Manriquez said:
Dear Washington Families and Staff,
Today is a sad day for our school and community as we suffered the tragic loss of one of our students. One of our sixth graders was fatally struck by a vehicle while walking to recess. In response, our school went into a shelter-in-place shortly after second lunch. Because of heavy police activity in front of the school, we dismissed students early.
Although you may have seen information online, out of respect for the family’s privacy, we are not sharing the name of the student. As this is an active investigation, we will not be sharing additional information about the specifics of this incident.
I know your student(s) may be experiencing feelings of fear, anxiety, and sadness about this tragedy. Please know we are doing everything we can to support our students and staff.
School will be open tomorrow, and we will provide safe spaces for students who need support in coping with this tragedy.
Coping with Grief
Students may respond to the news in different ways. When someone dies, especially a peer, it is normal for young people to have different reactions.
School staff also understand that each culture has its own way of acknowledging and responding to death, and we encourage students to talk with their families about their ideas, thoughts, and beliefs. Additionally, talking about loss can be a healthy way for students to understand their feelings and reactions.
Here are some suggestions for how to help students cope:
- Maintain a normal routine.
- Answer questions factually.
- Remain calm and reassuring. Students take their cues from their parents and adults.
- Be a good listener and observer. Pay attention to changes in behavior.
- Notice when young people have questions and want to talk.
- Be especially loving and supportive; at this time children and teens need you even more.
- Take care of yourself. You are better able to help your child if you are coping well.
These links may provide helpful guidance in these challenging conversations:
- When Grief or Loss Hits Close to Home: Tips for Caregivers
- The Dougy Center for Grieving Children and Families
- How to help a grieving teen.
Resources
The district is providing additional counseling and support staff tomorrow to help those who may need extra care as they process this loss. Additional community resources can be found on the SPS Mental Health Services webpage.
For students who choose not to attend classes tomorrow, Washington’s School Based Health Center, Kaiser, will be offering Telehealth support for students during school hours from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. if remote support is needed.
Here are some additional resources and community supports:
- The 988 Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support and crisis counseling
- Teen Link offers young people peers to listen and discuss concerns. Calls and chats are confidential. 1-866-teenlink (833-6546)
- Crisis Connections offers 24-hour support; call 1-866-427-4747
In devastating times like this, we are reminded of the incredibly supportive and caring community that we are fortunate to be a part of at Washington Middle School. We are here for each other.
Please hold your loved ones close and seek comfort in one another. Remember, you can reach out to me and our school staff if you have questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
Principal Adrian Manriquez Washington Middle School
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