4-year-old Struck to Death by School Bus in Wisconsin; Parents and School Mourns Loss of Happy Soul

Honk News– (Waukesha County, WI) – A tragic incident occurred on Thursday, January 2, in Sussex, Wisconsin, where a 4-year-old kindergarten student was fatally struck by a school bus in the parking lot of Silver Spring Intermediate School. The Waukesha County Sheriff’s Department (WCSD) confirmed the accident in a news release.

Details of the Incident

The child, whose name has not been released, was returning to Willow Springs Learning Center after the holiday break. The accident happened during a routine transfer to a shuttle bus at approximately 8:37 a.m.

Incident OverviewDetails
DateJanuary 2, 2025
LocationSilver Spring Intermediate School, Sussex, WI
Victim4-year-old kindergarten student
Bus OperatorDairyland-Hamilton
Purpose of TransferShuttle to Willow Springs Learning Center

Investigation and Statements

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the accident. The bus driver involved is fully cooperating with the investigation, according to the WCSD.

Dairyland-Hamilton Bus Company expressed their condolences, stating:
“We offer our deepest condolences to the student’s family, friends, and the Hamilton School community. We are fully cooperating with local authorities and maintaining communication with district partners.”

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Eyewitness Account

One parent, Waleed Edoud, shared that his 5-year-old son witnessed the accident:
“During the transfer, my son said the kid behind him got hit by the bus, and it just missed him. He’s horrified,” Edoud said. He also raised concerns about the morning bus transfer process, adding, “The youngest ones get out every morning with a chaperone from the middle school.”

School District Response

In the wake of the tragedy, the Hamilton School District canceled classes on Friday across all its schools. The district issued a statement expressing their grief and support for the affected families:
“It is with extreme sadness that we inform you about a recent loss to our school community. Out of respect for the family, we are not sharing additional information at this time. Our student services team is available to provide support during this difficult time.”

The Waukesha County Critical Incident Stress Management Team is also assisting in offering emotional support to students and their families as reported by PEOPLE.

Moving Forward

The investigation remains ongoing, and the community is mourning the loss of a young life. Further updates will be provided as more details emerge.

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