ORANGE PARK, Fla. – A crossing guard was seriously injured Tuesday morning after being struck by a vehicle near Grove Park Elementary School in Orange Park, according to the Orange Park Police Department.
Officers responded to a crash at the intersection of Gano Avenue and Miller Street. The preliminary investigation indicates the crossing guard was stopping traffic on Miller Street when a vehicle turning southbound onto Miller Street from Gano Avenue struck her.
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Police said the crossing guard was wearing a high-visibility traffic vest and holding a stop sign at the time. The driver stopped at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation.
The crossing guard was taken to a local hospital with serious injuries. The crash remains under investigation.
Police are asking drivers to remain alert, slow down and use extra caution near school zones, crosswalks and crossing guards.
The school district released the following statement about the incident:
“Clay County District Schools is deeply concerned following an incident that occurred this morning near Grove Park Elementary School, where a crossing guard provided by the Orange Park Police Department was struck by a vehicle. The crossing guard was transported via emergency services to a local hospital for injuries. Our thoughts and support are with the guard, their loved ones, and our partners at OPPD.
Our highest priority is the well-being of our students and staff. Clay County District Schools has deployed our District Crisis Team, including counselors, to Grove Park Elementary to assist any students or staff who may have witnessed the accident or need support processing today’s events.
For any questions regarding the accident investigation or the condition of the crossing guard, please contact the Orange Park Police Department directly.
We strongly urge all drivers to slow down, eliminate distractions, and pay close attention when traveling through school zones and near our campuses. The safety of our students, staff, and the dedicated team members who protect them every day relies on everyone driving responsibly."