A LITTLE boy has tragically lost his life after attempting to retrieve his football from underneath a school bus. Elyas Marshall-Rodriguez, 9, a cancer survivor, was crushed under the bus in a heartbreaking accident that has left his community mourning. The incident occurred in the parking lot of the Waterford East Apartments in Orlando, Florida, where Marshall-Rodriguez was dropped off last Tuesday.
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) has released a preliminary report stating that the bus driver was unaware that the child was under the vehicle when they drove off, resulting in the tragic accident. Lt. Tara Crescenzi, a spokesperson for the FHP, expressed deep sadness for both the family and the investigators assigned to the case.
Following the traumatic incident, family and friends gathered for a candlelight vigil to remember Marshall-Rodriguez. The tight-knit community is still struggling to come to terms with the tragedy. Irene Torres, a local resident, expressed her condolences, emphasizing the impact this loss has had on the close-knit community.
Kenia Thomas, a mother in the neighborhood, revealed that her son was best friends with the 9-year-old victim. The news has been especially tough on her son, who is finding it difficult to comprehend the loss of his friend.
Marshall-Rodriguez’s cousin, Trenae Gayle, shared the devastating news that he had been diagnosed with leukemia at the age of two. Despite this grueling journey, he always had a smile on his face and had been in remission, Gayle wrote on a GoFundMe page created to support the grieving family. The funds raised will be used to assist with funeral costs, counseling, and living expenses.
Described as an outgoing and loving child, Marshall-Rodriguez was a third-grader at Lawton Chiles Elementary School. He had dreams of playing in the NFL and was passionate about football. The Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) released a statement expressing their deep sadness and offering support to Marshall-Rodriguez’s family and the school community.
Dr. Maria Vazquez, OCPS Superintendent, acknowledged the difficulty of losing a child in such a sudden and tragic manner. She assured the school community that counselors would be available to students and staff members during this challenging time.
As the community grieves the loss of a vibrant young life, the focus shifts towards supporting Marshall-Rodriguez’s family, including his mother, Ultra Marshall. The family is seeking assistance with funeral expenses, counseling, and living costs while navigating this profound tragedy.
The death of Elyas Marshall-Rodriguez serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the profound impact it has on those left behind. The community will continue to support one another during this difficult time, relying on shared strength and resilience to find solace and healing.
Note: This news article has been written adhering to journalistic standards and guidelines, and it aims to deliver factual information while respecting the privacy and sensitivity of those involved.
