Los Angeles, CA – A tragic incident occurred in the parking lot of a private school in San Fernando Valley, where a student lost their life after being hit by a vehicle. Additionally, at least five others sustained injuries, as reported by authorities on Wednesday afternoon.
Emergency responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at Campbell Hall, situated at 4533 Laurel Canyon Boulevard in Studio City, shortly after 3 p.m., according to a statement from fire officials.
The L.A. Police Department reported that an incident took place at the conclusion of the school day during pick-up at the back of the campus, where the driver of a green 2025 Rivian SUV allegedly hit a 15-year-old boy while he was walking between vehicles.
Authorities reported that the boy was trapped and may have been crushed between the Rivian and a smaller, white SUV. LAFD paramedics swiftly transported him and his unharmed father to the hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries and was declared deceased.
Due to the slow speeds during student pick ups, there are concerns that the driver of the Rivian might have accidentally pressed the gas pedal instead of the brakes, resulting in a series of unfortunate events. Authorities have yet to verify that information.
According to fire officials in a recent update, two additional students and three adults sustained injuries during the incident. Their conditions have been described as “unspecified” and “non-life threatening.”
The mayor’s crisis team was on its way to provide emotional support and recovery assistance to family members and witnesses present at the location.
L.A. County Board Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, representing Studio City, shared a statement on X, stating:
“My heart is with the entire Campbell Hall community during this tragic time.”
In a message addressed to parents of students at the private Episcopalian institution, the Head of School Rev. Canon Julian P. Bull expressed that he and the school officials are deeply saddened by the unfortunate loss.
“Our collective hearts and thoughts are with the family,” he continued. “I know that the Campbell Hall community will be there for all of them in the challenging days and weeks ahead. In the meantime, please respect the family’s privacy as they process this overwhelming loss.”
The email also mentioned that there will be no classes or final exams on Thursday. However, it encouraged members of the school community to come together in the Garver Gym, where counsellors will be available from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Details regarding the age and gender of the SUV driver remain undisclosed, and there is no indication of whether speed or substances played a role in the accident. Officials have yet to disclose if the Rivian driver was taken into custody or may encounter potential legal repercussions.
