The sheriff’s office says a car backing down the driveway hit and killed a kindergarten student

In a sorrowful event that has shaken the community of Center Point, Alabama, a young life was tragically cut short. Six-year-old Hunter Spanier, a bright and cheerful kindergarten student at Chalkville Elementary, was fatally injured in a heart-wrenching accident on Tuesday evening.

The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Hunter passed away on Wednesday night at Children’s of Alabama hospital in Birmingham, following the grievous injuries he sustained.

The incident unfolded just after 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, when deputies from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office were called to the scene in the 700 block of 27th Avenue NE. Reports indicated that a child had been struck by a car. The investigation revealed that Hunter was accidentally hit by a vehicle backing down the driveway of a residence. Initially, he was rushed to Children’s of Alabama with life-threatening conditions but, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, succumbed to his injuries the following day.

This tragic accident has left the community and Hunter’s school in profound mourning. Described by his principal as a student who always had a smile on his face and could light up the room, Hunter’s absence leaves a void that will be hard to fill.

The Jefferson County School District, under the guidance of Superintendent Dr. Walter Gonsoulin, has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of such a young and vibrant life.

“We are heartbroken and extend our deepest sympathies to the family of Chalkville Elementary student Hunter Spanier,” Dr. Gonsoulin stated, emphasizing the shared grief of the JEFCOED Family with Hunter’s loved ones, friends, and teachers.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the school has provided counselors to support students and faculty as they navigate through this difficult time. Dr. Gonsoulin assured that the district would do everything in its power to support the community in the coming days, underscoring the collective mourning and the unimaginable loss faced by Hunter’s family and friends.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. As of now, there appears to be no criminal activity associated with this heartrending incident. However, the community and authorities alike stress the importance of safety and vigilance to prevent such tragedies in the future.

As this small community comes together to remember Hunter, his infectious smile, and the joy he brought to those around him, a somber reminder lingers of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with our loved ones.

The loss of Hunter Spanier is not just a tragedy for his family but a profound loss for the entire community, reminding us all of the preciousness of life and the impact one young individual can have on so many.