A Jefferson R-7 first-grade student was killed this afternoon (Dec. 21) after he was dropped off from his school bus, which struck him while it pulled away.
The young boy attended Plattin Primary School.
His parents had been notified about his death, Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper Scott Roettger said during a press conference held outside Plattin Elementary.
The accident happened about 3:25 p.m. in the Oakland Manor subdivision at the intersection of Oakland Hill Drive and Oakland Manor Drive south of Festus, Roettger said.
He said the bus driver, a man, let the child off the bus and started to proceed with his route when the child was struck while crossing in front of the bus.
Roettger said the Major Crash Squad was still investigating the accident at 5:30 p.m. and he had no further details.
Jefferson R-7 Superintendent Clint Johnston, choked up with emotion, said today was the last day of school before the Christmas break.
“We had our Christmas parties today,” he said.
Johnston said the district would provide counseling for students and others in the community.
“We’ll have counselors available at the (Plattin) school,” Johnston said.
He said the counselors will be available at the school during the break and when classes resume Jan. 5.
“Just a terrible situation,” Johnston said. “Please keep the family and our community in your prayers.”