Rockville, Maryland — A heartbreaking incident has deeply affected the Montgomery County community following the death of 11-year-old Summer Lim, who was hit and killed by a school bus while biking home from her school.

 Rockville, Maryland — The Montgomery County community has been deeply affected by a devastating incident in which 11-year-old Summer Lim was fatally struck by a school bus while riding her bicycle home from school. This tragic event took place in a peaceful residential area close to Earle B. Wood Middle School, where the sixth grader was cherished for her vibrant demeanor and passion for cycling.

As per the Montgomery County Police, the incident occurred around 3:13 p.m. on October 9 at the crossroads of Bauer Drive and Russett Road. Authorities indicated that a bus from Montgomery County Public Schools was making a right turn onto Russett Road when it collided with the young bicyclist, who was traveling in the same direction. Eyewitnesses noted that the girl was helmeted and seemingly adhering to traffic regulations at the time of the accident.

Emergency personnel arrived swiftly after the 911 alert. Paramedics and firefighters dedicated their efforts to try to save the young girl’s life, but unfortunately, despite their prompt actions, she was declared deceased at the location, near the back wheels of the bus. The site was quickly secured as officials commenced their investigation, documenting details and gathering statements from witnesses.

Officials confirmed that the bus operator, an experienced adult, sustained no injuries from the incident. Although several students were aboard the bus at the moment of the accident, none were hurt. Authorities mentioned that the driver has been placed on administrative leave, which is typical in cases like this. Currently, no legal charges have been made.

Crash reconstruction specialists from the Traffic Division of the Montgomery County Police Department are investigating the precise details surrounding the incident. They are examining surveillance videos, conducting interviews with witnesses, and evaluating the bus’s internal camera system to review factors such as visibility, speed, and positioning during the turn. No preliminary results have yet been disclosed.

Montgomery County Public Schools released a statement expressing profound sadness over this loss. “We are devastated by this heartbreaking event and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the student,” the statement conveyed. “We are offering counseling and emotional support for students and staff impacted by this incident.”

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the community has shown an overwhelming sense of sorrow and support. Vigils have been arranged at the site of the accident, where classmates, educators, and local residents have come together to bring flowers, light candles, and reminisce about the young girl whose life ended too early.

Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign has been initiated to assist Summer’s family with funeral costs and emotional healing. A significant amount of money has already been collected as messages of condolence continue to arise from all over the area. Friends characterize her as a cheerful, compassionate, and adventurous girl who brought happiness to those around her.

Local community members and guardians are currently advocating for enhanced safety protocols in the vicinity of educational institutions and crossways that are frequently utilized by children commuting on bicycles or by foot. Numerous residents have requested that the county implement more visible signage, reduce speed limits, and improve the visibility of bicycle lanes to avert future incidents.

While the investigation proceeds, the community remains steadfast in their sorrow and commemoration. The tragic death of 11-year-old Summer Lim has made a profound impact on Rockville — a sorrowful reminder of life's fragility and the pressing necessity for awareness, kindness, and protection on the routes that children traverse daily.