A father of young children was struck and killed by a teenage driver during an elementary school drop-off, and the children’s mother was seriously injured, authorities said.
The couple was hit while walking in a crosswalk at the intersection of Charles Lux Drive and Lopez Way in Gilroy, Calif., just after 8 a.m. local time on Friday, Jan. 16, according to the Gilroy Police Department. The collision happened shortly after the parents dropped off one of their children at Las Animas Elementary School, Gilroy Unified School District Superintendent Anisha Munshi said in a statement.
Police said the father was pronounced dead at the scene despite lifesaving efforts. The mother was described as being in “serious” condition following the crash and was airlifted to a hospital for treatment.
Police did not identify the parents or the driver, but confirmed the driver was a teenager. The teen was detained and “is being cooperative with the investigation,” police said on Friday.
Investigators said “drugs, alcohol and speed are not considered a factor in this tragic collision.”
The Gilroy Police Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Sunday, Jan. 18.
Munshi said the couple’s child who attends Las Animas Elementary School has a sibling who is a student at Rod Kelley Elementary in Gilroy.
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The Gilroy Unified School District is “working to provide support” to both children as their mother recovers and in the wake of their father’s death, Munshi said.
As for community members seeking help, Munshi said “onsite counseling services are immediately available to students, families and staff at both schools.”
“I am deeply saddened for the family, our students, the broader community, and the driver,” Munshi said. “Please hold all those involved, and our community, close in your hearts.”
In its initial announcement on Friday, police said the investigation is ongoing. “At this time, there is still much to learn and much to be investigated, and we ask for your patience and understanding during this difficult time.”
