A heartbreaking incident unfolded outside Washington Middle School in Seattle, resulting in the untimely death of a 12-year-old student. The accident occurred shortly after second lunch when the young girl was struck by an unattended vehicle while walking to recess. The car, which had rolled backward for approximately 75 yards on 20th Place South, hit the student around 1 p.m. The owner of the vehicle is undergoing standard evaluation for drugs and alcohol. Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, emphasizing the school's commitment to supporting the community during this difficult time. Principal Adrian Manriquez informed families and staff about the incident and outlined steps to help students cope with their emotions.

The afternoon of the incident was marked by a series of distressing events at Washington Middle School. Shortly after second lunch, as students were transitioning to recess, an unoccupied vehicle began rolling backward on 20th Place South. Tragically, it traveled about 75 yards before colliding with a sixth-grade student. Emergency services and law enforcement responded promptly, initiating a shelter-in-place protocol due to heavy police activity around the school. Consequently, the administration decided to dismiss students early to ensure their safety. While the investigation into the cause of the unattended vehicle remains ongoing, the school community is grappling with the profound impact of this loss.

In the wake of this tragic event, the principal emphasized the importance of maintaining a supportive environment for all students and staff. Counseling services have been bolstered to provide emotional support to those affected. The school administration has also provided guidance on how parents can assist their children in processing grief. Recommendations include maintaining routines, offering reassurance, and being attentive to changes in behavior. Resources such as the 988 Lifeline, Teen Link, and Crisis Connections have been highlighted for additional support. The district is committed to ensuring that students who need extra care receive it, whether through in-person or remote assistance.

As the school community mourns this devastating loss, there is a collective effort to come together in solidarity. The administration has assured that all necessary measures will be taken to support students and staff in coping with the tragedy. In these challenging times, the focus remains on healing and providing comfort to those affected. The school’s resilience and unity are evident as they strive to offer a safe space for everyone to process their emotions and find solace in one another.