Thompsonville school district offers support services after student’s death
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
THOMPSONVILLE, Ill., (KBSI) — Thompsonville Community School District 174 said grief counselors and support staff will be available for students and staff following the death of a student.
In a letter to families and the community, Superintendent Lindsay Robinson said the loss has deeply affected the school district and surrounding community.
The announcement came after a fatal two-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon on Illinois Route 34 near Marvel Road west of Thompsonville, according to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said a 16-year-old female died following the head-on crash. Preliminary information indicates a Chevrolet Malibu traveling westbound crossed into the eastbound lane and struck a Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck.
The teenage driver was taken to Franklin Hospital, where she later died from her injuries. The driver of the pickup truck, a 47-year-old man, was airlifted to a trauma center with serious injuries.
School officials said classes will remain open as scheduled Friday to provide students and staff with support and connection during the difficult time.
Counselors, social workers and additional support personnel will be available throughout the day for anyone needing assistance.
The district also announced the school would open Thursday evening for students, staff, families and community members who wish to gather, reflect and support one another.
Officials said, due to safety concerns at the crash site, the sheriff requested that memorial items be brought to the school instead. Community members are encouraged to leave flowers, notes and other memorial items at the student’s crossing guard location on campus.
Multiple agencies responded to the crash, including the Thompsonville Police Department, Cave-Eastern Fire Department, Ewing-Northern Fire Department, Benton Fire Department, AMR Ambulance and AirEvac.
The crash remains under investigation by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, the Illinois State Police Traffic Crash Reconstruction Unit and the Franklin County Coroner’s Office.
School leaders asked the community to keep the student’s family and loved ones in their thoughts while respecting their privacy.
