FORT MILL, S.C. — A crossing guard has died after being hit by a car outside of a South Carolina elementary and middle school complex, police said. Investigators are still deciding if charges will be filed against the driver.
It happened late Thursday afternoon on Springfield Parkway outside of Fort Mill Elementary and Fort Mill Middle schools.
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The guard, identified as 61-year-old Stanley Brucker, was taken to the hospital where he later died.
Authorities said Brucker was working as a crossing guard at the entrance and exit to Fort Mill Elementary School when he was hit.
School officials released a statement about his passing, saying, “The entire district community is deeply saddened by this tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”
Police said they have interviewed the driver of the car, but so far, have not made any arrests.
>> Brucker’s family has created a GoFundMe to help pay for their expenses as they travel for his funeral. Click here to contribute.
Brucker’s family told Channel 9′s Tina Terry he was a pilot and a missionary. People who live in the community told Terry they are devastated by his death.
“On such a wide street, to have a crossing guard killed in that manner, is just -- it’s just unthinkable,” Ryan Rocket said.
He has kids who attend the elementary school.
“It’s tragic, especially because it was completely avoidable,” he said.
Rocket said there are signs and even a flashing light on Springfield Parkway warning drivers that the area is a school zone.
“If you’re paying attention as a driver, this should not be an issue,” Rocket said.
“As a parent, I’m thankful for their service for what they did to protect our children,” he added.
Friday was a normally scheduled teacher work day, so students were not in the classroom.
Read the full statement from the district below:
“Thursday, during afternoon dismissal, an unfortunate incident occurred involving one of our dedicated crossing guards. The district has received confirmation of the guard’s passing. The entire district community is deeply saddened by this tragedy, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
“In response to this heartbreaking event, the district is making available our Crisis Team Counselors for the foreseeable future to provide support for any student or staff member who may need assistance in coping with this loss. We encourage students and staff alike to reach out if they feel the need to talk to someone.
“This incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of exercising caution and remaining vigilant when traveling through school zones. We implore everyone to be extra cautious, particularly during drop-off and dismissal times. It is essential to spread awareness about the necessity of taking extra care to ensure the safety of our community.”
(WATCH BELOW: $204M school bond passes in Fort Mill)
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