Harlingen elementary student recovering after getting struck by vehicle

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District student is recovering after being struck by a vehicle on Friday.

The Jefferson Elementary student was hit by a truck when exiting a school bus at the corner of Monroe and "D" street Friday afternoon, according to a Facebook post from HCISD.

Superintendent J. A. Gonzalez and school board trustees were immediately notified and were in constant contact with school district transportation administrators on the scene, the district stated.

“These types of incidents can be a parent’s worst nightmare, but we are so very grateful that the 7-year-old did not suffer any life-threatening injuries," said Gonzalez. "There will be a recovery period from a fractured ankle sustained, and we are looking forward to having this student back with his classmates at Jefferson Elementary in no time."

Harlingen police say the child was struck by a passing truck while the school bus was stopped with the loading lights and sign deployed.

“We implore the public to please watch out whenever you are driving near a school bus and especially when they are loading or unloading children," said Harlingen CISD School Board President Belinda Reininger. "It is all of our responsibility to keep our children safe."