A tragic incident unfolded in Greenwich Township, New Jersey, on Friday, May 8, when a seven-year-old boy lost his life after being struck by a school bus. The accident occurred at approximately 3:40 PM local time, prompting a swift response from emergency services following reports of a collision involving a juvenile and a vehicle.
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According to the Greenwich Township Police Department, local officers arrived on the scene where they found residents attempting to administer emergency medical assistance to the injured child. Their efforts continued until the boy was taken over by Gloucester County Emergency Medical Services, who transported him to Cooper Hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
The child’s identity has not been publicly disclosed. Witnesses reported that the boy was likely hit just moments after disembarking from the school bus. “I heard the police and ambulance sirens,” shared one neighbour. “At first, I thought it was happening further down the street. Then I looked out and saw the neighbourhood engulfed in flashing red and blue lights.”
Residents described the young boy as a familiar face in the community, regularly seen walking to and from school or the local bus stop. “It’s a devastating loss for the family,” remarked another neighbour. “He used to come through here every day, and now this tragedy has struck. May God rest his soul.”
Disturbing footage captured by a doorbell camera showed a woman desperately seeking help from neighbouring homes immediately following the incident. In the video, the school bus can be seen halted on the road, while locals rushed to provide aid to the child.
In a statement, another witness recounted seeing several individuals gathered around the boy, including two nurses who promptly began performing CPR in a bid to save his life. The actions of these bystanders highlight the community’s immediate response and concern in the face of such a tragic accident.
In response to the incident and its impact, representatives from Clonmell Methodist Church announced that the facility would be opened on Saturday to provide support for residents coping with the tragedy. Additionally, the Greenwich Township School District expressed its commitment to offering counselling services to students returning to school the following Monday.
While the investigation into the accident continues, both the school district and the police department have refrained from making immediate comments regarding the incident. The heartbreaking event has sent shockwaves through the local community, leaving many grappling with the loss of a young life.
As the community comes to terms with this devastating event, support services are being mobilised to help those affected navigate their grief. Residents are encouraged to reach out and seek assistance during this incredibly difficult time.