A student at West Hartford’s Aiken Elementary School sustained what appear to be minor injuries after being struck by a car after school.

By Ronni Newton

A student at Aiken Elementary School was struck by a car after dismissal Thursday afternoon, according to police and school officials.

“After school today, one of our students was involved in a traffic accident,” Aiken Principal Christine Mori said in an email to school families Thursday afternoon. “The student was responsive at the scene and was transported to the hospital for evaluation. Our Aiken staff responded immediately and we are grateful for the swift response from the WHPD, WHFD, and other first responders. We are hopeful for the student’s speedy recovery.”

West Hartford Police Capt. Aaron Vafiades told We-Ha.com that the student was struck while crossing Hilldale Road from Peyote Road, at approximately 3:30 p.m. Hilldale is the roadway just south of Aiken, and Peyote is an access point to one of the school’s parking lots.

“The driver remained on scene and was cooperative,” Vafiades said, adding that the injuries to the child were “seemingly minor.”

Because of the timing of the incident, many families may have witnessed it. “The incident occurred shortly after dismissal, and students may have seen the emergency response, which could be concerning or upsetting,” Mori said in her email to families. “I encourage you to check in with your child. If additional support is needed, our school clinical staff are available and ready to help.”

Mori added that this is an important reminder to the Aiken community “to reinforce safe driving and pedestrian habits, including staying alert to both vehicle and pedestrian traffic and looking both ways before crossing the street.”

She urged anyone with questions or who needs further support to reach out to their child’s teacher, or the administrative team for assistance.

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