Sixth-Grader Dies After Being Struck By Bus In North Stonington: Reports

NORTH STONINGTON, CT — The town is mourning the death of Torren O'Grady, a sixth grader at North Stonington Elementary School, according to reports.

Torren was struck by a school bus on Ravenwood Road around 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, according to WFSB 3 TV. The details of the crash are under investigation, and everyone is fully cooperating, officials told WFSB 3 TV.

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School was dismissed early, and extra support resources were provided to students.

In a statement, the school district said via WTNH News 8 that "Grief looks different for everyone, but what is steadfast is our commitment to our students and our community during this time. Our hearts are with the O'Grady family."

School officials said via News 8 that they will support everyone affected by this tragedy.

"Please take care of yourselves and one another," school officials said.

North Stonington Volunteer Fire Company said, "It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the tragic accident that occurred today. Our thoughts and prayers are foremost with the family, friends, classmates, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time. We ask that their privacy be respected and that they be surrounded by compassion and support. We also extend our support to all responders & our entire community as we come together to navigate this tragedy. A critical stress incident management team has been brought in to help support our first responders in this difficult time. North Stonington has always demonstrated strength and compassion during difficult times. We ask our community to come together once again and support one another. We encourage everyone involved today to lean on family, friends, and available support services in the days ahead."

Gov. Ned Lamont said, "My heart breaks for Torren O'Grady's family, friends, classmates, teachers, and the entire North Stonington community as they confront an unimaginable loss. No family should ever have to endure the heartbreak of losing a child."

"Our State Police and State Department of Education stand ready to provide support to the schools and students in North Stonington who are grappling with this tragedy," Lamont said. "I ask all drivers in the state to please take extra care around school buses, school zones, bicyclists, and children traveling to and from school. Slow down, and help keep our students safe as they start this new school year."

State Rep. Greg Howard said, "I am deeply heartbroken by the tragic incident today. My thoughts and urgent prayers are with the child, their family, and everyone affected by this horrific event.To me, as a parent, there is no greater nightmare than seeing a child harmed. I am in touch with local emergency services and law enforcement as they respond and investigate; and have also communicated with the State Dept of Education. All state resources are being made available to North Stonington to cope with this horrific tragedy.

"I want to extend my deepest gratitude to our brave first responders, fire fighters, medical personnel, school and town officials, and law enforcement officers who arrived on the scene so quickly and acted with such skill and dedication, as they always do, protecting our community,"Howard wrote. "I know our community is hurting right now; but I also recognize the way in which North Stonington knows how to pull together. Please keep this family in your thoughts, and let us all hold our loved ones a little closer tonight."