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KEARNS — A 12-year-old boy died Thursday after getting hit by a car while riding his bicycle to school, police said.
The child was riding a bike north on 4140 West and was crossing Sam's Boulevard near Kearns Junior High School around 7:45 a.m. when he was hit by a Chevrolet Tahoe, said Unified Police Sgt. Aymee Race.
First responders arrived on scene and began performing life-saving measures on the 12-year-old before he was transported to a hospital in critical condition where he later died from his injuries.
The victim was identified as Adam Mahmet, a student at Kearns Junior High School.
"This school is heartbroken. Kearns Junior High is an incredibly close-knit community and this accident has had far-reaching effects," said a statement from Granite School District.
Race added the crosswalk has lights, but no crossing guard was present. Witnesses stayed at the scene to help with the investigation, as did the driver of the vehicle that hit the child, who police said was cooperating.
The district's statement added that schools and districts do not have authority over traffic safety, including crosswalks and safety lights, and do not hire any personnel to staff crosswalks.
"This authority lies with law enforcement and municipalities. We will continue to collaborate with our city and law enforcement partners to work to provide safe walking routes," the statement said.
The incident remains under investigation and authorities are urging drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution, especially near school zones and crosswalks.
The district said its crisis response team has been in the school providing initial support to students and staff and will continue to be at the school through Friday. The team will "work with families for any additional ongoing support or resources that may be needed."
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