A seventh grader from Wadsworth Middle School riding a bicycle died Friday afternoon after they were involved in a crash with a van in Wadsworth.
According to police, the crash happened just after 2:30 p.m. near Silvercreek Road and Longbrook Drive.
Police said the 13-year-old was riding their bike on the sidewalk of Longbrook Drive and didn't stop at a stop sign at the intersection. A 30-year-old woman driving a 2018 Ford Transit Van made a left turn at the intersection and struck the child.
The child was pronounced dead at the scene, police said. The van's driver wasn't injured, police said.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating the crash.
Wadsworth City Schools sent a letter to parents this afternoon after learning of the crash.
We are heartbroken to announce the death of James Kennedy, one of our students at Wadsworth Middle School. We received notice that he died in a tragic accident. The family is requesting privacy during this difficult time. Our Wadsworth Crisis Response Team will have trained crisis counselors available to meet with students and staff, beginning tonight from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Wadsworth Middle School, located in the Media Center.
Please contact your child's school office on Monday if you feel he/she is in need of additional assistance; we have a list of additional school and community mental health resources available. We will continue to provide crisis counselors for students on Monday and beyond, if necessary. Our thoughts and support are with the Kennedy family, friends, and the entire Wadsworth community.
If you or your student needs immediate crisis/mental health assistance, please contact Alternative Paths/Medina County Crisis Line at 330.725.9195.
Wadsworth City Schools’ Crisis Response Team
Chief Dan Chafin with the Wadsworth Police Department told News 5 that with the end of the school year and the beginning of the summer season on the way, he's urging everyone to use greater caution when they're out and about.
“Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are absolutely with that family; none of us can imagine what they’re going through tonight," Chafin said. “Whether you’re a motorist, whether you’re a pedestrian, whether you’re on a bike it’s so important to be aware of your surroundings. If you lose a second because you moved the radio, if you lose a second because you tried to look at a text message, if you lose a second because you're distracted, that second can literally mean the difference for someone's life."
A GoFundMe has been sent up for the Kennedy family. CLICK HERE for more information.
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