A 10-year-old boy was tragically killed on Tuesday when he was struck by a public bus just blocks away from his school in Erie, Pennsylvania, police said.
Joshua Ortiz was running a bit late to his third grade class at McKinley Elementary School when he tried to run across the street and was hit by an Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority, cops said.
The death was ruled an accident following a police review of surveillance footage, according to YourErie.
In wake of the tragedy, Joshua’s mother, April, launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs. As of Thursday night, it had raised over $23,500.
“I am fundraising for my son’s funeral; Joshua Ortiz, who got hit this morning and passed away anything will help,” she wrote in a description on the donation page. “I appreciate and thank anybody who is able to help out he was such a happy boy; always had a smile on his face so energetic so outgoing.”
Erie School District Superintendent Brian Polito said in a statement that counselors would be available for students and staff members who are struggling with the loss.
“I speak for the entire Erie’s Public Schools family when I say how saddened we are by this tragic accident. Our hearts are with the student’s family, friends, classmates, teachers and all who knew him,” he wrote, according to YourErie. “We are doing everything we can to support that community and will continue to do so.”
In a statement on Facebook, McKinley Elementary School officials said support for Joshua’s family will not stop while school is out of session for Christmas break, and will continue once we are back together on January 3rd. The safety and well-being of our students, families and staff are our top priority.”
EMTA Chief Executive Officer Jeremy Peterson said in a statement “our prayers and deepest condolences are with the child and his entire family. EMTA mourns the loss of life and prays the family and those affected are able to find comfort during this difficult time.”