DEARBORN, Mich. – A Fordson High School student is in critical condition after being struck by a car in Dearborn while walking to school early Friday morning.
The crash happened at around 7:30 a.m. near Ford and Schaefer roads.
Police say an initial investigation shows that a driver in a black Jeep Cherokee traveling westbound on Ford Road struck the 15-year-old girl near the intersection.
The girl was ready to cross the street at the crosswalk with her sister when the light turned red for oncoming traffic.
The walk light was on, and she was hit the moment she took her first step onto Ford Road.
Police and witnesses confirmed that the driver who struck her ran the red light.
The girl was taken to a local hospital, where she is listed in critical condition.
This pedestrian crash happened on the school district’s last day of classes before winter break.
“Our prayers are with the victim’s family, as well as the school staff and students at Fordson, and we hope for an eventual recovery,” said Dearborn Police Chief Issa Shahin. “We continue to urge drivers to pay attention to their surroundings, slow down, and be safe on the roads.”
The police department is working with the school district to make grief counseling available for students and staff.
Anyone who witnessed the crash is asked to contact Dearborn police at 313-943-2241.
The principal of Fordson High School released the following statement regarding the crash:
Greeting Fordson Community,
I know many in our community are already aware of the very unfortunate traffic incident that occurred this morning outside of Fordson. I would like to provide you with accurate information while at the same time respecting the privacy of our student and their family.
This morning, a 9th grade Fordson student was hit by a car at the corner of Ford Road and Schaefer while walking to school. Dearborn Police are investigating the details of this serious vehicle crash.
At this time, all we can share is that the student is in the hospital with serious injuries. As we continue to talk with the family we will pass along further details with their permission. We ask that everyone please direct all of your thoughts and prayers to the family during this very difficult time.
All of us at Fordson pride ourselves on creating a caring and supportive environment. When someone in our Fordson family is in need, we know that our amazing community will be there to support each other.
Chadi Farhat, Principal of Fordson High School
