January 20, 2012

A 14-year-old Lakeland (Florida) High School student died Tuesday afternoon after she was hit by a school bus at 3:06 p.m., reports WTSP News.

The student was crossing West Beacon Road southbound from Camphor Drive. The 43-year-old substitute bus driver was stopped on Eden Parkway at the intersection of West Beacon Road.

Investigators say that the bus driver was making a left turn when she hit the girl, who was airlifted to Tampa General Hospital. The teen was pronounced dead at 4:37 p.m.

The Assistant Superintendent for the Polk County School District Transportation Department says that the bus driver was so distraught over the accident that she had to be rushed to the hospital. “She’s absolutely devastated over what took place.”

The middle school principal at Southwest Middle School says that teachers, students, and staff are going to be upset as they learn of the young girl’s death. “She was a sweet girl–very well liked–popular with the other students–involved here at school.”

Lakeland police say that their investigation is still ongoing.

Meanwhile, none of the 28 Southwest Elementary School children on board the school bus were hurt.

School district officials say that counselors will be available to help the students and the school bus driver during the week.

Read more.

Have you or someone you know been injured in a Florida pedestrian accident?

The Florida pedestrian accident lawyers at Steinger, Iscoe & Greene may be able to help.

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