The new school year began in tragedy for a young girl in Florida who was accidentally run over by her mother’s SUV during morning drop-off at Booker Middle School in Sarasota. The 12-year-old girl had dropped her backpack and some belongings rolled under the vehicle, prompting her to crawl under on her hands and knees to retrieve them. Unaware of her daughter’s position, the mother began to drive away, causing the girl to scream and the mother to stop immediately. The girl was airlifted to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg in critical condition following the incident.
The identities of the girl and her mother were not revealed. The Highway Patrol Trooper Kenn Watson expressed concern over the tragic accident happening on the first day of school and emphasized the importance of having good spatial awareness in school zones and during drop-off. He stressed the need for parents to pay attention and not rush when dropping off their children. The school provided counselors for students in the aftermath of the incident, and principal Lashawn Frost advised parents to adhere to designated drop-off procedures to prevent similar accidents from occurring.
The community was shaken by the incident, with many expressing sadness and concern for the injured girl and her family. The authorities reminded parents and drivers to be vigilant when driving near school zones and to be aware of their surroundings. The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of safety and caution, especially during school drop-offs and pick-ups. There was an outpouring of support for the girl and her family, with hopes and prayers for her recovery.
The accident underscored the need for parents to prioritize safety and awareness when dropping off or picking up their children from school. Drivers should always double-check their surroundings before moving their vehicles, especially in busy school zones. The importance of following designated drop-off procedures and taking time to ensure the safety of all children was reiterated in the wake of the incident. The school community came together to offer support and guidance during a difficult time.
The girl’s critical condition was a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in school zones and parking lots, highlighting the need for caution and attention at all times. The incident served as a wake-up call for parents and drivers to be more mindful of their actions and surroundings, particularly when children are present. The hope was that the tragic accident would serve as a lesson for everyone to prioritize safety and awareness in school zones and during drop-offs in order to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The incident was a sobering start to the school year, prompting reflection on the importance of taking precautions and being vigilant in ensuring the safety of children.
