Extra police officers and grief counselors are on campus at a Contra Costa County middle school Thursday following the tragic death of a crossing guard Wednesday afternoon.
As school was letting out on Wednesday, an SUV collided with him and a child directly in front of Stanley Middle School in Lafayette. The student only suffered only minor injuries, but 45-year-old Ashley Dias had stepped in front of the child to protect them, and was pinned under the vehicle. He later died at the hospital.
"I met one of the fathers at the hospital and he said, 'Your son saved my daughter's life,'" said Gloria Dias, his grieving mother.
The driver of the car is cooperating with police, who are still investigating the tragic collision. According to neighbors who live near the school, speeding has long been a problem, especially after a recent remodel of the school.
"I hope something can be done," said Max Barletta, who used to live across the street from the school.
And the pandemic didn't help. When campuses reopened for in-person learning last month, the Lafayette School District tightened up pick-up and drop-off times at schools.
"Because we're trying to minimize the time students are on campus and maybe creating close contact," said Superintendent Richard Whitmore. But after this tragedy, Whitmore said they will be taking a hard look at those plans.
Dias worked in IT. He had just started as a crossing guard on Tuesday, after hearing there was a need for volunteers. As community members mourn the loss, many have been adding to a memorial in front of the school on Thursday.
One sign said simply, "Thanks for keeping us safe."
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