A Florida high school student was tragically killed after being hit by a vehicle while on her way to a bus stop, authorities said.
The Ocala Police Department reported that officers responded to a crash involving a 2015 Nissan Rogue and a pedestrian in the 1900 block of NW Old Blitchton Road on the morning of Monday, Oct. 27.
“Tragically, the pedestrian, an 18-year-old senior at Forest High School, was pronounced deceased at the scene,” police said in a statement. “Investigators determined that the student was walking in the roadway toward her bus stop.”
A spokesperson for the Marion County Public School District identified the student as Shannon Rushing.
“School counselors described her as very personable, bubbly, and well liked by many including her teachers and office personnel,” Kevin Christian wrote. “She recently joined the Jesus Club on campus and was always encouraging others with her positive outlook.”
Grief counselors were sent to Forest High School to support students and staff after the tragedy and will remain available “as long as needed,” the district added.
Authorities noted that Shannon had headphones in her possession and may have been wearing them at the time of the accident.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy,” police said. “Our hearts go out to the family, friends, and the entire Forest High School community as they deal with this devastating loss.”
According to the Ocala StarBanner, the driver of the vehicle was a 60-year-old woman who immediately stopped, called 911, stayed at the scene, and cooperated fully with investigators.
Shannon’s older sister, Shanta Norton, described her to ABC affiliate WCJB as a friendly, determined young woman.
“She had disabilities, but it didn’t stop her,” Norton said, explaining that she had raised Shannon since their mother’s passing. “She was in the Christian club, and she just joined one in school as a matter of fact, but a very outgoing person.”
Christian also noted that both Shannon’s guardian and the driver involved in the incident are employees of the school district.
“It’s definitely a difficult day for our school district, and one that hurts many people at many different levels,” he said.
In a message to the Forest High School community, Principal Dion Gary reflected on the loss, writing, “This is a reminder of how precious life is, and we must cherish every moment.”
