A 9-year-old boy died after being hit by a school bus in Almonte, Ont., while riding his bike home. Police are investigating the tragic collision.
Child Dies in School Bus Collision
A tragic accident has claimed the life of a 9-year-old boy in Almonte, Ontario, after he was struck by a school bus while riding his bicycle. The incident occurred Wednesday afternoon near R. Tait McKenzie Public School, a short distance from where the boy was reportedly attending school.
Crash Reported on Paterson Street
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) responded to the scene on Paterson Street around 3:40 p.m. The school bus, which was transporting other children at the time, struck the boy while he was cycling. According to OPP spokesperson Corey Noonan, the child had just left school when the accident happened.
Immediate Response from Community
The accident occurred in a busy area, with numerous parents and school staff nearby. Witnesses included teachers and guardians leaving the school grounds. Staff from a nearby school reportedly rushed to the scene to assist. Emergency responders arrived shortly after and pronounced the boy deceased.
Investigation Underway
The OPP closed Paterson Street for several hours as officers, including traffic collision reconstruction experts, examined the scene. Authorities have notified the boy’s family, and police are continuing their investigation to determine the cause and any contributing factors.
Community in Mourning
The incident has deeply shaken the small community of Almonte, which lies approximately 50 kilometres southwest of Ottawa in the Township of Mississippi Mills. Grief support is expected to be offered to students and families in the area in the coming days.