- Unattended SUV rolled nearly 75 yards down a slight hill
- Driver undergoing standard drug and alcohol evaluation
- School district providing grief counseling and resources
- Incident occurred at 1 p.m. near Washington Middle School
- Police cite improper gear engagement as likely cause
A devastating accident shook Seattle's Washington Middle School community Thursday afternoon when an unattended SUV struck and killed a 12-year-old student. Preliminary police reports indicate the vehicle traveled approximately 75 yards downhill before colliding with the child, raising critical questions about parking protocols in school zones.
Authorities confirmed the SUV's driver is cooperating with investigators, with standard toxicology tests underway. While impairment hasn't been confirmed, this tragedy highlights growing concerns about vehicle safety near educational institutions. Recent NHTSA data shows unattended vehicle incidents cause nearly 500 injuries annually nationwide, with 18% occurring near schools.
Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones emphasized mental health support for affected students and staff. 'Our crisis team is working tirelessly to help our community process this unimaginable loss,' Jones stated during a press briefing. The district plans to review all school zone safety measures next week.
This incident echoes a 2022 Tacoma case where a parked delivery van injured three students, leading to Washington's 'School Zone Auto Safety Act' requiring mandatory parking brake use. Automotive safety experts suggest modern features like automatic gear engagement and hill-start assist could prevent similar tragedies.
As investigators finalize their report, community members have organized a roadside memorial and pedestrian safety petition. Washington Middle School parents are demanding improved traffic barriers and driver education programs, with a town hall meeting scheduled for next month.