A 6-year-old Frankfort student died Tuesday after she was struck by a school bus on Aberdeen Road, leaving her family, classmates and the wider community mourning her death.
Frankfort police said officers were called to the 500 block of Aberdeen Road shortly after 3:20 p.m. for a collision involving a school bus and a pedestrian. When officers arrived, they found the girl unresponsive with serious injuries.
First responders immediately began life-saving efforts before she was taken to a nearby hospital. She was later pronounced dead.
The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the child as Jenna Menias of Frankfort. She was a student in Frankfort School District 157-C.
Students on bus reunited with families
Several students were aboard the bus when the crash occurred. Emergency responders evaluated the children at the scene, and they were later reunited with their families. No other injuries were reported.
The bus involved was carrying Frankfort School District 157-C students as part of the afternoon student commute.
The school district said the incident has deeply affected its school community and encouraged students who are struggling with the news to speak with a trusted adult, teacher, social worker or member of the school’s support team.
District 157-C and Lincoln Way Transportation are cooperating with law enforcement as the investigation continues.
Aberdeen Road crash remains under investigation
The crash brought a significant police and emergency response to the residential area around Aberdeen Road and Heather Lane. Investigators marked the roadway while working to determine what happened.
Police temporarily advised residents to avoid the area because of road closures and expected traffic delays.
Authorities have not released details explaining exactly how the collision occurred. They also have not announced whether any citations or charges will result from the investigation.
Frankfort police said the investigation remains ongoing and are asking anyone who may have information about the crash to contact the department.
Community mourns 6-year-old student
The death has prompted an outpouring of sympathy for Menias’ family and those who witnessed or responded to the crash.
Frankfort police expressed condolences to the girl’s family, loved ones and everyone affected by the incident.
For the school community, the focus now includes supporting students and staff while investigators work to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is asked to contact the Frankfort Police Department.
