Honk News (Amarillo, TX) – A Texas community is in shock following the tragic accidental death of a second grader from the area.
Officers and medical personnel responded to a call at Gateway Elementary School in Borger, Texas, around 8 a.m. local time on Friday, Jan. 24, following an incident reported in the student drop-off area.
According to a press release posted on Facebook, authorities reported that the coat of a second grader became trapped in a vehicle door while they were getting out. Authorities reported that school officials initiated life-saving efforts for the child, and emergency medical services subsequently transported the child to Golden Plains Community Hospital, where the child was pronounced dead.
“Despite the presence of a senior school administrator who immediately attempted to intervene, the incident happened so quickly that it could not be stopped,” the Borger PD said.
The department stated that they will not disclose the child’s name because of their age and in consideration of the family’s privacy.
Brandon Strope, the assistant city manager and public information officer, informed that local authorities are viewing the incident as a “tragic accident.” He further stated that police “do not have any reason to believe that criminal charges will be filed.”
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“Our hearts go out to all those affected by this horrible accident as they navigate this devastating loss. The entire community grieves alongside them,” the Borger PD added in the press release. “At this time, we ask for understanding, patience, and compassion for all those affected. Please join us in keeping the family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Borger Independent School District announced on their Facebook page that the student’s parents were informed and that classes were dismissed at 10 a.m. on the day of the incident.
The school district also announced that counselors would be accessible to “any community member in need of support or guidance” at the nearby Crockett Elementary. The district announced that more counselors will be present at Gateway on Monday, Jan. 27.
Residents from the surrounding community have united to pay tribute to the student’s life, creating a heartfelt memorial adorned with flowers, balloons, and stuffed animals at the entrance of the elementary school. A local source reports that the Walmart in the area is contributing stuffed animals for the memorial.
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At a recent press conference, the assistant city manager, Strope, urged local residents to come together and support one another following the tragic events.
“Being in a small town and seeing the community come together is what makes being here in a time like this bearable, Strope said. “You know, we have seen a great outpouring of support on social media of those saying, ‘Hey, we’re there for you. We feel for you. We can’t imagine what you’re going through.'”