MANCHESTER, Jamaica — A devastating road traffic collision claimed the life of a 14-year-old student in Manchester on Friday, prompting an ongoing police investigation. The victim, identified by local authorities as Lakeea Thompson from Woodlawn Road, was struck by a reversing Toyota Coaster bus along the May Day main road.
According to official police reports, the tragic incident occurred as the bus initially stopped to pick up students. Subsequently, the vehicle moved forward before engaging in reverse motion, at which point it collided with Thompson who was walking behind the bus.
Emergency services transported the critically injured teenager to Mandeville Regional Hospital where medical personnel attempted life-saving treatment. Despite these efforts, Thompson succumbed to her injuries while undergoing medical care.
Law enforcement officials have issued a formal warning to the 45-year-old bus driver for the criminal offense of causing death by dangerous driving. The Mandeville Traffic Department, in collaboration with the Area Three Accident Investigation and Reconstruction Unit, has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal incident.