Police ID 2 Riverdale Elementary Students Hit, Killed By Car

RIVERDALE PARK, MD — Prince George's County authorities identified the two children hit and killed by a car while walking to school Monday.

At a news conference held Tuesday, Police Chief Malik Aziz said Riverdale Elementary School students Shalom Mbah, 10, and Sky Sosa, 5, both of Riverdale, were walking to school with an adult male relative when they were hit by a van attempting to make a left turn onto Riverdale Road.

According to police, the female driver of the van was driving southbound on Taylor Road around 8 a.m. when the crash occurred. Police said the children and the man were in a crosswalk at the time of the crash.

Both children were taken to a hospital, where they later died. Police said the man suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

"We want to reach out and convey our profound condolences to the families and friends (of the victims)," Aziz said at the news conference. "Every child is precious with lives filled with the promise of a bright and happy future. Please know that our thoughts, our prayers and our support remain with the family during this difficult and tremendous time of need."

Authorities did not identify the driver of the van or the male relative.

The crash remains under investigation. Aziz said once the investigation is complete, the department's findings will be turned over to the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office to determine if criminal charges will be filed.

The collision prompted the school to hold virtual classes on Tuesday.

In a statement posted on the school district's website, Superintendent Millard House said counselors and virtual support would be available to all students.

"Our hearts ache as we extend our deepest condolences following the tragic pedestrian accident that claimed the lives of two Riverdale Elementary School students this morning," House said in a statement posted on the district's website. "The entire community is grieving, and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected by this unimaginable loss during Thanksgiving week."

Anyone with footage of the incident or information about the crash should contact investigators at 301-731-4422.