HOLYOKE — A sixth-grade Holyoke STEM student who was hit by a car on Main Street while walking to school is slowly improving as she has been receiving medical care at an area hospital.
In response to the incident on Sept. 27, the city of Holyoke has called for increased diligence for motorists in an effort to ensure safety for pedestrians in the city. Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia shared with the public that while she continues to improve, her journey will take considerable time.
For members of the public who wish to offer support to the student and her family, the mayor’s office has started an emergency relief fund through the Holyoke Chamber of Commerce. Donations can be sent via:
- Venmo @growholyoke
- PayPal to Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce
- By check to the Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, 177 High Street, Holyoke, MA 01040
The incident remains under investigation by the district attorney’s office with assistance from Holyoke and State police. Garcia said he wants the public to be mindful that the investigation may take some time and additional information will be shared publicly when the agencies are ready to do so.
“Until then, please avoid speculating about what may have caused this incident to occur, who may have been at fault, or what specific individuals could have done to prevent it from happening. Those findings will be determined during the course of the investigation,” Garcia said.
The city has encouraged the public to follow a few tips going forward with an emphasis on safety for pedestrians in response to the incident. They hope and continue to advise drivers and pedestrians to stay vigilant and aware of their surroundings.
Staff of the Holyoke Public Schools will review all infrastructure surrounding schools to ensure everything is properly functioning. The district will then forward any recommendations to Garcia and he plans to work with city officials where it is believed improvements need to be made.
The Holyoke Police Department is also taking additional steps to support pedestrian safety during school hours. Police cars will be stationed in proximity to various schools with their lights turned on to encourage drivers’ vigilance.
Garcia, Superintendent/Receiver Anthony Soto and Ward 2 City Councilor Carmen Ocasio met with the family the day of and offered support and making sure they were aware the community was behind them during this time. In a release from the district, they noted they would be offering and providing additional support to students and staff to ensure resources were met at this time.
“The Holyoke Public School staff and my office continue to provide support to the student and her family — and all of the students in our schools. Staff have been working collaboratively to provide a stable, welcoming and comforting place of learning and belonging within our schools, while ensuring students and staff are provided support as they process their emotions and the effects of trauma,” Garcia said. “Providing these human connections, especially during crucial times, helps reaffirm our students’ sense of belonging and trust.”
