The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh has released a statement after a Serra Catholic student died in an accident involving a school van Wednesday morning in Dravosburg.
The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the victim as 15-year-old Samantha Kalkbrenner.
the Serra Catholic van was turning left as it was hit by a Volkswagen Jetta at the intersection of Richland Avenue and 3rd Street around 7:30.
Three other Serra Catholic students were taken to the hospital in stable condition. The driver of the van and driver of the car are also being treated at the hospital.
The diocese had decided to close school and cancel all activities for the rest of the week.
Counselors from Serra and other Catholic schools are helping those in need of counseling.
“At a time like this we become aware of how precious life is and how important it is to support each other not only during tragedy but always,” said Pittsburgh Bishop David Zubik.
The statement also called the Serra Catholic community “close-knit” and administrators, teachers and the school chaplain are also working to help comfort those affected.
“We ask for your prayers for everyone involved as the school community struggles with their shock and grief,” the statement concluded.