A tragic event took place in Texas after a 15-year-old student was struck by a semi-truck when she was exiting a school bus. The 18-wheeler, driven by 41-year-old Gregory Jackson, reportedly struck a Toyota and later veered toward the driveway, impacting the student. Police arrested Jackson and charged him with criminal negligent homicide.
The incident took place on U.S. Route 59 north of Livingston at around 4:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 2. The Texas Department of Public Safety shared the news on their official X account.
"Troopers are investigating a fatal crash involving a Livingston ISD bus on US 59 north of Livingston," reads the statement. "Sadly, we can confirm a 15-year-old student was struck and killed by an 18-wheeler as the child was leaving the bus. Investigators remain on the scene, gathering evidence."
According to ABC 13, the Department of Public Safety stated the school bus stopped while flashing its red lights, dropping off the unnamed 15-year-old student. Behind the school bus, the Toyota, driven by a 28-year-old woman, stopped. At that moment, the 18-wheeler driven by Gregory Jackson impacted the back of the woman's vehicle. As a result, Jackson veered right, tragically impacting the teenager.
Arrest And Condolences
The student was pronounced dead at the scene, and both the 27-year-old woman and Jackson were not injured. According to PEOPLE, Jackson was arrested and charged with criminal negligent homicide. He is being held at Polk County jail and his bail was set at $250,000.
Following the crash, the Livingston Independent School District confirmed that the victim was one of their students. They issued a statement, offering their condolences to the family, as well as counseling for their students.
"Our district lost a member of its family. At times like this, we are reminded how precious life can be and how fragile each life truly is. It is sad when our district loses a member of its family," the statement reads. "It is even more tragic when such a young life is taken away from us. We extend our thoughts and sincere condolences to family and friends."
"All of our counselors are available in the morning to listen and help any students needing assistance. We are fortunate to have a team of experienced counselors who can provide much-needed comfort to our students and staff."
