New details have emerged about how a second-grader was killed last week in a “tragic accident” at a Texas elementary school-drop off.
An eight-year-old girl, since identified as Serenity Campos, was exiting a vehicle at Gateway Elementary’s designated student drop-off area Last Friday when, unbeknownst to the driver, her coat became caught in the car door.
Police on Monday said that multiple witnesses then saw as “the vehicle began to pull away, the motion caused Serenity to fall and be struck by the vehicle” at the Borger school, about 50 miles northeast of Amarillo, according to multiple outlets.
Gateway Elementary School in Borger, Texas. (Google)
In their first detailed statement Friday, police added that though a senior school administrator was there and “immediately attempted to intervene, the incident happened so quickly that it could not be stopped.
“School officials and first responders attempted life-saving measures,” the statement continued.
Life-saving efforts continued at a nearby hospital, where Serenity “succumbed to the injuries.”
“Our hearts go out to all those affected by this horrible accident as they navigate this devastating loss. This entire community grieves alongside them,” the statement continued. “At this time, we ask for understanding, patience, and compassion for all those affected.”
It is unclear who was driving Serenity at the time of the accident, though authorities previously said her parents had been notified.
Serenity will be laid to rest Wednesday afternoon, according to an online obituary, which says she was “full of life, love and enthusiasm.” The little girl is also remembered as an aspiring YouTuber and school principal, who was already known as a “protective big sister and friend.”
Walmart donated 40 stuffed animals to be laid at the memorial in front of the school, police said Friday evening.
At the time of publication, nearly $79,000 had been raised as part of a GoFundMe — exceeding the $75,000 goal — to help Serenity’s family in funeral expenses, taking care of her three siblings and “grieving and healing together as a family.”
