ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – Tuesday marked one week since a student was struck and killed outside Patriot Oaks Academy while riding a gas-powered mini dirt bike.
A memorial continues to grow outside the school along Long Leaf Pine Parkway in Durbin Crossing in honor of the 12-year-old who died.
“My heart is absolutely broken for this family and it’s just devastating to think that a young member of this community lost his life on this road,” St. Johns County Commissioner Christian Whitehurst said.
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The Durbin Crossing neighborhood had organized a meeting with Whitehurst and other county leaders for Monday to address safety concerns near the school.
Their involvement was postponed because organizers said they needed a larger venue to accommodate everyone who might want to attend.
News4JAX asked Whitehurst about how the county is addressing safety concerns on Longleaf Pine Parkway, which is the road that sits right outside the school where the accident happened.
“I think it’s my job as a policymaker for this district, for this community, to consider any and all enhancements and any and all safety measures for not just the crosswalk but for the road. But obviously we want to let the investigation run its course and then look at the findings of fact that come from the investigation and make our decision based on data and the facts that come from the outcome of the investigation,” Whitehurst said.
One community member spoke to News4JAX, urging for lower speed limits to be enforced near the school.
“It’s going to aggravate some people, but at the same time, I think there are so many kids in the area, so slow it down,” they said.
News4JAX also contacted the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, asking for an update on the investigation into the crash. A spokesperson responded:
“Currently, there are no updates. We do anticipate the case will be concluded soon. Once it is, we will provide our findings.”
In the meantime, residents with concerns about Longleaf Pine Parkway were encouraged to contact Commissioner Whitehurst.