6-year-old boy fatally struck by vehicle while crossing street in Decatur

DECATUR, Ill. (WICS) — A tragic accident occurred early Thursday morning when a 6-year-old boy was fatally struck by a vehicle while crossing the street in Decatur.

According to the Decatur Police Department, officers responded to the scene at approximately 7:21 a.m. at the intersection of Oakland Avenue and Packard Street.

The initial investigation revealed that the boy was attempting to cross Oakland Avenue to reach a school bus stop when he was hit by a southbound 2024 Nissan Rogue.

The young pedestrian was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the Nissan, a 41-year-old Decatur resident, was not injured in the incident.

Authorities noted that there was no school bus present at the time of the crash and found no indications that the driver was under the influence.

"The morning of Thursday, April 10th Decatur Public Schools was made aware of a traffic accident in which a DPS student was hit by a car. We are deeply saddened to learn the student passed away. Our thoughts are with the student’s family, friends, and all those affected by this heartbreaking loss. We are offering support to the family, students, and staff during this difficult time."