Student's Death 'Has Deeply Impacted' Rolling Meadows Community: Principal

ROLLING MEADOWS, IL — Students at Rolling Meadow High School are continuing to grieve the loss of one of their classmates. Samuel Alfaro Acevedo, 16, of Mount Prospect, was killed Monday night when an electric bicycle he was riding struck a pickup truck in Arlington Heights.

"Samuel's passing has deeply impacted his classmates, teammates, teachers, and all of us who are part of the Rolling Meadows High School community," Rolling Meadows Principal Megan Kelly said. "We ask that you keep Samuel's family in your thoughts and hearts at this incredibly difficult time."

Visitation for Acevedo is planned for 2 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, at El Verbo de Dios, an evangelical church located at 800 N. 18th Ave., Melrose Park. Bormann Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Acevedo, a senior, was a member of the school's varsity soccer team.

According to Arlington Heights police, Acevedo, who wasn't wearing a helmet, was traveling at a high rate of speed when the crash occurred at around 7:28 p.m. Monday, at the intersection of South Reuter Drive and West Grove Street.

Police found Acevedo unconscious with traumatic injuries. A caller had reported the e-bicycle had struck a gray, 2021 Ford F150 pickup truck.

Police said paramedics from the Arlington Heights Fire Department immediately assessed Acevedo's condition and began advanced life-saving efforts. He was taken to Lutheran General Hospital due to the level of serious and traumatic injuries, where later succumbed to his injuries at around 10:06 p.m.

The driver, and sole occupant of the truck, was uninjured, according to police. As of Wednesday morning, there have been no charges in the case.

RELATED: Boy, 16, Killed After Electric Bike Strikes Truck — Arlington Heights PD

Kelly said counselors, social workers and members of the school's students services team are available for any students "wanting to talk or process their feelings." The school has also made specific spaces available in the building for students to meet with the team.

"In the aftermath of this tragedy, we encourage you to check in with your children at home, to listen with care, and to remind them that it is okay to seek help," Kelly said. "We recognize that our students will need support in the coming days and weeks ahead."

She added that Care Solace, a mental health service, is available around the clock at 888-515-0595.

"Our Mustang community is strongest when we lean on one another, and together we will honor and support each other as we grieve this terrible loss," Kelly said. "As our community mourns, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Samuel's family."

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe campaign for Acevedo has been created by the boy's mother, Sandra Acevado. As of Wednesday morning, the campaign has raised nearly $40,000 of a $70,000 goal.

"Samuel was a beloved son, brother, friend, and teammate. Samuel was a proud Mustang Soccer player. His dream was to play soccer in college," Sandra Acevado said. "We are completely devastated as a family. We are seeking support in covering funeral expenses. Anything you can do to support our family during this unthinkable time is greatly appreciated."