SOUTH FULTON, Ga. — A 9-year-old boy died after he was hit by a car Wednesday afternoon, according to the South Fulton Police Department.
Authorities said it happened at 4:45 p.m. at the 2200 block of Creel Rd. Google Maps shows the location is a neighborhood that is off Old National Highway.
South Fulton Police added the driver of the car was not arrested but did not provide any other details at this time.
The police department said its investigation remains ongoing.
On Thursday, the principal of Love T. Nolan Elementary School released a letter on the tragedy, identifying the student who was killed as 4th grader A'Caryion Perry.
You can read the full statement at the bottom of the story below. Loved ones have started a fundraiser to help pay for memorial services. Those who'd like to contribute can do so here.
Earlier in the day, authorities said a 9-year-old girl was also hit by a car while getting off a school bus on Bromack Drive.
A spokesperson for Atlanta Public Schools said the girl was a student at Cleveland Avenue Elementary. She was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The two separate, unrelated incidents where the children were hit by cars are about 20 minutes away from each other, according to Google Maps.
Letter from Love T. Nolan Elementary's Principal
Dear Love T Nolan Community,
There are times when it is necessary to communicate news that is painful for all of us. During those times, we must be prepared to support each other and our students. It saddens me to inform you of the death of A’Caryion Perry a 4th grade student.
When events such as this happen, youth react in different ways. You may see your child feeling sad, upset, angry, shocked, or numb. For some students, a death of someone they know may remind them of some other loss in their lives. For others, this may be their first encounter with death.
The death of a student may affect your child in a variety of ways depending on his or her age, how well he or she knew the person, and your child’s prior experience with grief. When reacting to an unexpected incident, students may display behaviors such as the following:
- Cling closely to adults
- Display regressive behaviors
- Appear not to be affected
- Think about it privately
- Ask a lot of questions
- Appear frightened
- Appear agitated and angry
- Appear sad and withdrawn
- Display difficulty sleeping
- Stomachaches and/or headaches
We suggest that you make an extra effort to listen to your child during this time. It is important that you deal honestly and directly with any questions that he or she may have. Referring to death as “passing away” may result in confusion; it is appropriate to use the word “death” in your discussions. Below are some other suggestions parents may find useful in helping their child:
- Be a good listener. Listen carefully for any misconceptions or distortions your child may have.
- Provide physical closeness. Spend extra time with your child. Talk and offer reassurance.
- Encourage your child to ask questions and to discuss their feelings.
Sincerely,
Dr. Denise Brown
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
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