A 12-year-old girl had to be rushed to the hospital after being struck by a car while using a crosswalk near her school in Iowa. The incident took place on Friday, September 5, in the 300 block of East County Line Road in Des Moines. Reports indicate that the girl sustained non-life-threatening injuries and had to be hospitalized overnight. Maria Scaggs, the girl’s mother, expressed her gratitude that her daughter survived the accident.
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According to CBS affiliate KCCI and NBC affiliate WHO, the girl was leaving McComb Middle School and was walking in a crosswalk near Studebaker Elementary School when the collision occurred. Maria Scaggs revealed that her 10-year-old son and the girl’s friends were present and witnessed the traumatic incident. She expressed disbelief at the fact that her daughter was hit while using a designated crosswalk, highlighting the assumption of safety in such areas.
Scaggs further reiterated her shock and stated how parents always believe their children are safe. The family received a distressing phone call about the accident, prompting them to rush to the scene. The 12-year-old girl was immediately taken to the hospital with injuries that were fortunately not life-threatening. Despite following the rules at the time, there was no crossing guard present as classes had been dismissed an hour earlier.
The emotional toll on the family was evident following the incident, with Scaggs acknowledging the weekend was challenging. However, she expressed relief that her daughter only had to spend a night in the hospital and could now recover at home with her loved ones. The Des Moines Police Department (DMPD) did not provide an immediate response to inquiries from PEOPLE.
In an unfortunate coincidence, around 15 minutes before the girl was struck, a separate incident involving a 4-year-old being hit by a car occurred at another crosswalk in Des Moines, at the intersection of East 12th Street and Fremont Street. Fortunately, the toddler sustained minor injuries and did not require hospitalization. The series of accidents has raised concerns about pedestrian safety in the area.
Incidents like these serve as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, especially in areas frequented by children. The community is urged to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic rules to prevent similar accidents in the future. Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to educate children about pedestrian safety and the importance of following designated crossing procedures to avoid such tragic incidents.
As authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accidents, residents are reminded to stay informed and vigilant while navigating the streets, particularly near schools and other high-traffic areas. The well-being and safety of vulnerable road users, especially children, should be a top priority for all members of the community.