Investigation Ongoing After Death Of Boy Struck By School Bus: PF PD

PARK FOREST, IL — Authorities continue to investigate after a 7-year-old boy died after being struck by a school bus Friday afternoon, police said.

Police will interview those involved as well as witnesses, in addition to reviewing surveillance footage and forensic evidence, Park Forest police said. It's unclear if charges will be filed, they added. The South Suburban Major Accident Reconstruction Team is also assisting in the investigation.

"The Park Forest Police Department is dedicated to ensuring a full, impartial, and complete investigation into this matter is conducted," police said. "... Unfortunately this review and associated evidentiary results cannot be completed as quickly as would be desired by anyone involved," police said. "An decision regarding criminal charges will be made in conjunction with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office when all evidence has been obtained and reviewed."

The incident took place just after 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 20. The bus involved is owned by Kickert Bus Company and was transporting students from Park Forest-Chicago Heights School District 163. Park Forest police have been in contact with administration from School District 163 and the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. Police arranged for counselors to be available over the weekend and this week. The University of Illinois at Chicago Urban Youth Trauma Center is providing services to district families and those who have been affected.

No other details will be provided in the short-term, police said.

"Given the indescribable pain that the child’s family is enduring," police said, "no further details regarding this incident will be released until they have had time to process this tragedy and are able to review available information."