A tragic incident unfolded in Chicago on September 18th when a 9-year-old boy, Anakin Perez, was hit and killed by a vehicle on his way to school. The Chicago Police Department confirmed that the fatal collision occurred around 7:41 a.m. local time near McNair Elementary School, where the young boy was a student. Reports indicate that a light-colored Chevrolet sedan struck Perez as he was walking along a street, resulting in the devastating loss. The driver involved in the incident was issued a citation for “pedestrian in roadway-due care,” as per information shared by police. While this citation was issued, no additional charges have been filed at this time.
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The news of Perez’s untimely death has left family members, school staff, and the wider community in deep shock and sorrow. His grandmother, Valeria Fernandez, expressed her devastation, highlighting Perez’s love for sports and active participation in school activities. McNair Elementary School’s Principal, Benetrice Whitfield, extended heartfelt condolences to Perez’s family and assured support for the grieving school community. The tragic loss has undoubtedly raised emotions and concerns among students and staff, underscoring the need for support during such distressing times.
Following the incident, Perez was rushed to John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. While the boy tragically lost his life in the accident, no other injuries were reported. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the collision are ongoing, with the Chicago Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Unit leading the inquiry. Authorities have emphasised that no further charges have been filed in connection with Perez’s death at this stage. The driver involved has received a citation related to pedestrian safety, but the full details of the incident are still being scrutinised.
As the family and community grapple with the loss of young Perez, there have been calls for enhanced safety measures in the area. His relatives have advocated for increased supervision and safeguards to protect children walking to and from school, highlighting the critical need for vigilance and precaution to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The heartbreaking plea for justice from Perez’s mother, Alejandra Gallegos, underscores the profound impact of the accident on his loved ones, urging accountability and awareness of the consequences of such incidents.
Amid the outpouring of grief and support for Perez’s family, crisis management resources have been deployed to offer assistance to students and staff at McNair Elementary School. The educational institution, along with local authorities, is navigating the aftermath of the tragic loss, striving to provide solace and guidance to those affected. Meanwhile, the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office is awaiting the results of the ongoing police investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of Perez’s unfortunate demise. The community remains united in mourning the loss of a young life and advocating for measures to enhance safety and vigilance in school zones and residential areas.