"It appears this was truly a tragic accident:" Police release new details in crash that killed boy
WAUWATOSA -- Wauwatosa police on Tuesday, October 27th released more details about a fatal crash involving an 11-year-old boy -- indicating this incident was "truly a tragic accident."
The boy was struck by a vehicle near 70th and North on Monday evening, October 26th. He was transported to Children’s Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
According to police, the boy was riding his skateboard traveling eastbound on the sidewalk on the south side of W. North Avenue. In the 7000 block, the boy ended up entering the roadway. After losing control, he fell into the westbound lanes of traffic on W. North Avenue, where he was struck by a SUV that was driving westbound.
It happened around 6:30 p.m.
"It doesn`t even sound like it was avoidable, so it's just a really hard thing to swallow," Katie Grogan, owner of Alfa Flower Shop, located at 70th and North Avenue. "Not only do I have children that age, but when a child gets into an accident and doesn`t survive in your community that you either work or live in, it definitely hits you even harder."
Several citizens at the scene rendered immediate aid and attempted lifesaving measures until paramedics arrived.
Now, a memorial sits outside Grogan's shop -- and it was growing by the hour on Tuesday.
"I have a feeling it's just the beginning," Grogan said.
Memorial for 11-year-old boy who died after he was hit by a vehicle near 70th and North in Wauwatosa
The driver of the striking vehicle stopped immediately and remained on scene. Police say the driver is cooperating with the investigation -- and that there does not appear to be any wrongdoing on the part of the driver.
The Wauwatosa Police Department continues to investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident, however, they say it appears this was truly a tragic accident.
The Wauwatosa Police Department is not releasing the name of the victim or the driver at this time. An autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday morning.
70th and North Avenue in Wauwatosa
A letter was sent home to parents of children who attend Longfellow Middle School in Wauwatosa on Tuesday. It reads:
"It is with great sadness that we share the following information related to one of our students. A sixth-grade student at Longfellow, Quinn Richardson, died (Monday)."
The letter said counselors would be available at the school all day on Monday, and shared some advice regarding how to deal with death:
"Remember that as is the case with adults, all children grieve differently. If you are concerned about your child's emotional response to this news and want to talk about it with a professional, please feel free to call the school at any time to speak with a school counselor," the letter said.
Officials at Longfellow Middle School are accepting letters or cards on the boy's family's behalf.