JAMESTOWN, NY — Jamestown authorities have identified the young victim of a tragic school bus accident that occurred Monday morning. Leanna Herrera, a 4-year-old student in the Jamestown School District, was fatally struck outside Milton J. Fletcher Elementary School.
The incident took place at approximately 8:08 a.m. at the intersection of Cole Avenue and Whitehill Avenue on the city’s south side. Police reported that Herrera was struck by a Panama Central School District bus while the driver was in the process of dropping off another student. Emergency responders transported the child to UPMC Chautauqua, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Authorities emphasized that all parties involved, including the bus driver, have been fully cooperative with the ongoing investigation. At this time, the driver is not facing any charges.
The Jamestown Police Department is leading the investigation, with support from the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Police. Officials are working to determine the full circumstances that led to the heartbreaking accident.
“This is an unimaginable loss for our community and our school district,” a Jamestown Police spokesperson said. “Our thoughts are with Leanna’s family, friends, and classmates during this difficult time.”
School officials and law enforcement continue to urge anyone with information related to the incident to come forward to aid in the investigation.
Leanna Herrera’s death has sent shockwaves through the Jamestown community, leaving residents mourning the loss of a young life with so much promise.