LAKELAND, Fla. — A 17-year-old Florida high school student died on Monday after being struck by a vehicle driven by a crossing guard supervisor.
According to WTVT, Kalen Kirk, 17, was running across Clubhouse Road to catch the school bus when he was struck by a vehicle. He was taken to Lakeland Regional Medical Center where he later died.
The driver, identified as Shirley Cross, 60, is a 20-year school district veteran who serves as the district’s crossing guard supervisor, officers told WTSP.
Deputies said there is no crosswalk at the intersection and it was dark at the time of the accident.
The investigation is ongoing.
Polk County Schools released a statement on Monday:
“We are deeply saddened to hear that one of our students, Kalen Kirk, was fatally struck by a vehicle this morning on his way to school. George Jenkins High is like a large family, and our thought and prayers go out to Kalen’s family members and loved ones during this difficult time. A crisis team is available for any students or staff members in need of counseling.
