The release stated the driver was a 30-year-old female, and that the 12-year-old had been critically injured in the accident.
The FHP confirmed that the student had dropped some markers and pens and bent down to pick them up from under the vehicle. Tragically, however, she did not realize what her daughter was doing and began to drive off, running her over.
Booker Middle School in Sarasota, Florida.
The student was airlifted to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg with critical injuries, the FHP’s release stated. The incident took place in the right turn lane on Myrtle Street west of Newtown Boulevard.
A Sarasota County Schools spokesperson confirmed the accident to PEOPLE, stating, “A parent accidentally hit their child as the parent was dropping the child off on the street.”
“The school district encourages all families to follow district & school safety protocols and use the designated student pickup and drop off areas on school campuses,” they added.
Watson said, per the outlet andFox 13, “Here we are, day one, and we’ve already had a tragedy."
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida.Tampa Bay Times via ZUMA Press Wire
Tampa Bay Times via ZUMA Press Wire
“We’re hoping this does not happen again, but we have to remember to have that good spatial awareness when you are anywhere around a school zone and most certainly when you are letting your kid out of your vehicle,” Watson added.
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Aerial view of Sarasota, Florida.Zephyr Picture / Getty Images
“This serves as a reminder of the importance of following our established safety procedures,” Frost said, according to the outlet.
source: people.com