Belleville School Crossing Guard Hit By Car While Helping Kids Across Road

BELLEVILLE, NJ — A school crossing guard in Belleville is expected to make a full recovery after being hit by a car while helping children cross the street last week.

According to Belleville Mayor Michael Melham, the incident took place Friday outside School #3 at 230 Joralemon Street.

“Contrary to some of the rumors circulating, this was not a hit-and-run,” the mayor wrote in a social media post. “The driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully."

Multiple summonses were issued to the driver, including for uninsured motorist, reckless driving, careless driving and failure to yield to a pedestrian.

As for the crossing guard: she's on the mend, Melham reported.

“I'm relieved to share that she is expected to make a full recovery,” Melham added. “I have personally reached out to her several times, although have yet to make contact. She will certainly have our full support as she heals. Please continue to keep her in your thoughts.”

The incident took place just a few days after the Belleville Police Department held a “walk to school with police” event in the township to raise awareness about traffic safety.

Melham said the incident is a “powerful reminder” that crossing guards, students and families depend on drivers to be responsible when they get behind the wheel. Some things to keep in mind include:

• Obey crossing guard signals
• Approach all intersections with caution
• Avoid distractions—Put the phone down!

“These safety precautions aren’t just good practice—they save lives,” Melham added. “Thank you for helping us keep Belleville safe.”

The mayor’s post prompted some comments of concern from local residents. As seen online:

• “I was part of the safety patrol as a student at School #3 from 1987-90. I am glad to hear that the crossing guard will make a full recovery. Thank you for the reminder to all of us to drive safely around school zones!”
• “I'm glad the crossing guard is okay. My father was a crossing guard over by School Number 8 and Lloyd place for a long long time … he told me about all the drivers that just were so careless around the children. Please be careful and please be aware.”
• “I cross that intersection every day with my two children, and it’s incredibly unsafe. On numerous occasions, I’ve witnessed drivers blatantly ignore the crossing guards or even honk at them simply for doing their job. It’s a deeply troubling situation and the crossing guard that was struck is in my thoughts and prayers.”

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