A tragic incident involving a 9-year-old girl in Kansas City, Missouri, has left the community in mourning after she was struck and killed by a van while riding her bike to school. The Kansas City Police Department reported receiving a notification about a critical injury crash at the intersection of Longview Road and Food Lane at approximately 7:19 a.m. on Tuesday, October 14. According to the initial investigation, the young girl was riding her bicycle within a marked crosswalk with a green signal when a white Ford Transit van turning westbound hit her, causing her to fall to the roadway.
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Witnesses at the scene described the harrowing moments following the crash, with one witness, Ruby Perkins, recounting how she and another person rushed to help the girl, while a third person performed CPR. Another witness, Kailey Thompson, observed the driver of the van appearing shocked and devastated after the collision. The victim was rushed to the hospital but was tragically pronounced dead. Heartbreak and sorrow filled the community as the news of the young girl’s passing spread.
Although authorities did not initially reveal the victim’s identity, relatives identified her as 9-year-old Hazen Workman-Duffy, a vibrant and beloved student. A GoFundMe campaign set up by her family described Hazen as a lively, creative child who enjoyed various activities like drawing, biking, and swimming. The sudden and heartbreaking loss of Hazen has deeply affected her family and the school community. Ingels Elementary School, where Hazen was a student, expressed their condolences and offered support to her loved ones during this difficult time.
The tragic incident has prompted an outpouring of support and condolences from the local community, highlighting the impact of such a devastating loss on those closest to the young girl. The driver of the van remained at the scene, cooperating with authorities during the investigation. Witnesses and members of the community have been deeply affected by the loss of Hazen, with one witness reaching out to the victim’s mother to offer support and convey the heartbreaking news.
As the investigation into the fatal collision continues, authorities are processing evidence, reconstructing the crash, and awaiting autopsy results. Once these steps are completed, the case will be reviewed for potential charges by the Jackson County Prosecutor’s office. The tragic loss of Hazen Workman-Duffy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and vigilance, especially in areas where pedestrians and cyclists are present. The community is left grappling with the loss of a young life and the impact it has had on those who knew and loved Hazen.
This devastating incident underscores the need for increased awareness and caution on the roads, particularly during peak travel times when children may be commuting to and from school. The loss of Hazen Workman-Duffy has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the broader community, prompting reflection on the importance of road safety and mutual respect among all road users. As the community mourns this profound loss, support and solidarity have been extended to Hazen’s loved ones during this incredibly challenging time.