The Campbell Hall school community is mourning the loss of a 15-year-old student who was struck and killed on campus. The incident occurred in the school’s back parking lot during student pickup on Wednesday afternoon.
Authorities said the student, a ninth grader, was walking between vehicles when he was struck by a Rivian SUV. Authorities believe the driver may have mistakenly stepped on the accelerator instead of the brake.
The accident happened during a particularly congested time of day in the parking lot, with many vehicles and students on foot.
A parent who spoke with KTLA’s Kareen Wynter and wished to remain anonymous noted that the staff member usually responsible for directing traffic was not present on Wednesday.
Grief counselors were made available to students and staff on Thursday, though some families were too distraught to attend the session held in the school gymnasium.
In a message to parents, Campbell Hall officials expressed their condolences, saying their “hearts and thoughts” are with the victim’s family.
The tragedy occurred at the end of the school year, with some students preparing for their final exams. However, many did not take their finals, as the focus has shifted to healing and supporting one another.
Authorities have not released the identity of the driver, who, according to one parent, was a young woman picking up her younger sibling. Officials have indicated that the incident appears to be a freak accident, and the driver may not face any charges.
