Boy Fatally Struck By Semi In Downtown Manhattan: Manhattan PD

MANHATTAN, IL — A boy has died after being struck by a semi in downtown Manhattan Monday evening, according to police.

The boy—whose identity is being withheld at this time—was struck near Manhattan Pizza & Wings, 120 E. North St., Police Chief Ryan Gulli told Patch.

Manhattan police and fire were called just after 5:30 p.m. for an accident involving a 13-year-old male bicyclist and a semi at State and East North streets, according to a press release from police. First responders found the boy unresponsive in the roadway. He was pronounced dead at 8:13 p.m. at the intersection, the Will County Coroner's Office said.

Additional resources including Will County Sheriff’s Police, Illinois State Police and Manhattan Emergency Services were called to the scene. The incident remains an active investigation, with the assistance of Illinois State Police Traffic Reconstruction Unit & Will County Coroner’s Office, Manhattan police said.

"We kindly ask for everyone’s thoughts, compassion and prayers during these extremely difficult times," Gulli said in a release. "Especially for the children and the entire Manhattan community."

Manhattan District 114 on Monday night issued a statement to families about the sudden death of the Manhattan Jr. High eighth grader.

"Our hearts go out to the student's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time," said Superintendent Dr. Damien Aherne.

The district will offer counseling and support services for students, Aherne wrote. Additional support will come from neighboring districts, including social workers, counselors and psychologists to assist students and staff as they process the loss.

"We recognize that this is a very difficult time for our school community, and we deeply appreciate your compassion, understanding, and support," the letter to families reads.

All district activities before and after school are canceled for Tuesday, Oct. 21, the district also said.

This story is developing.