12-Year-Old Girl Struck, Killed By Unattended SUV Outside Middle School

A tragic accident occurred on Thursday (March 6) when a 12-year-old girl was struck and killed by an unattended SUV outside Washington Middle School in Seattle. The vehicle rolled approximately 75 yards down a slight hill, hitting the student around 1 p.m., according to the Seattle Police Department. Preliminary findings suggest the SUV was not properly placed in park, causing it to roll backwards. The driver is currently being evaluated for drug and alcohol use, which is standard procedure in such incidents.

The incident occurred as the student was walking to recess after lunch. In response, Washington Middle School was put under a shelter-in-place order, and students were dismissed early due to heavy police activity in the area. Seattle Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones expressed his condolences, stating, "My heart is heavy with sorrow as we face the devastating loss of a Washington Middle School student."

The school district is providing support to grieving students and staff, with safe spaces available for those needing help coping with the tragedy. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and it remains unclear if criminal charges will be filed. The community is urged to respect the family's privacy during this difficult time.