A family is mourning the loss of their young boy, who tragically lost his life after he got off the school bus on January 16, 2024.
The child was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 2 and was said to be in remission when he passed away.
Over 100 individuals gathered at the vigil held for the boy on January 17, adorning the memorial site with flowers, balloons, teddy bears, and heartfelt notes.
Late in the afternoon on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, a heartbreaking incident unfolded at the Waterford East Apartments on Island Bay Drive, Orlando, Florida, resulting in the tragic death of a 9-year-old boy. As per the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), the child, whose identity was not promptly disclosed, tragically lost his life after being struck by an Orange County school bus.
In a preliminary report by the FHP, it was disclosed that the fatal incident occurred as the bus, stationed at the time, had the young boy as its sole occupant. Exiting the vehicle, the child unexpectedly ran back towards the bus, crawling underneath it while in motion. Tragically, the bus driver, unaware of the child’s actions, reportedly ran over him.
Lt. Tara Crescenzi, an FHP spokesperson, expressed the profound impact of the incident, “It is absolutely devastating for this family that is here, but also for our investigators that have to investigate this type of scene.”
According to Trenae, Elyas’ mother knew something wasn’t right when he didn’t return home after school.
According to sources, family members later confirmed the boy’s identity as Elyas Amyr Marshall-Rodriguez. Elyas’ aunt revealed that her beloved nephew had chased a football under the bus, adding that he was a young football enthusiast. The Orange County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the manner of death as accidental, citing cranial-cerebral trauma as the cause.
Elyas Marshall Rodriguez had just gotten off at his stop when he ran back and crawled under the Orange County Public Schools bus, authorities said. https://t.co/NOGmVtcNQc
— NBC News (@NBCNews) January 18, 2024
The FHP continues its thorough investigation into this active traffic homicide case, with the 54-year-old bus driver, whose identity remains undisclosed, cooperating with authorities at the scene. The bus underwent towing for a comprehensive mechanical inspection, and the experienced 54-year-old driver, with over a decade of service, was interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Elyas, as per Orange County Public Schools (OCPS), was enrolled at Lawton Chiles Elementary School. In an official online statement, OCPS Superintendent Dr. Maria Vazquez conveyed profound sadness, acknowledging the tragic incident involving the loss of “one of their own.”
Conveying her heartfelt condolences, Dr. Maria stated, “We are deeply saddened to hear of the tragic death of one of our precious students who was involved in a bus accident late this afternoon. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the student’s family and school community.”
She acknowledged the immense difficulty faced by the family and friends in coping with the sudden and tragic loss of a child. Dr. Maria also noted the immediate support provided by the school, mentioning that counselors would be available to assist any student or staff member affected by the tragic event.
She concluded by asking for community solidarity, stating, “We ask that you keep the entire Lawton Chiles Elementary School community in your prayers as they grieve the loss of one of their own.”
The young Orlando boy’s life had been marked by resilience and triumph. Diagnosed with leukemia at just 2 years old, Elyas, as disclosed by family sources, bravely faced and overcame the disease, entering remission after the removal of his chemotherapy port last year.
His cousin Trenae Gayle added, “[Elyas] went through the Make-A-Wish Foundation because of how severe it was. So he had already been through a lot in his life.” Elyas, described as a “very bubbly person” with a compassionate spirit, had dreams that reached beyond his young age.
Trenae further shared, “He loved football. He loved basketball. He had hopes of going to the NBA, NFL one day.” Elyas’ passion for sports reflected a vibrant personality that resonated with those who knew him.
According to Trenae, Elyas’ mother knew something wasn’t right when he didn’t return home after school. Concerned, his mom went to a nearby playground, discovering the devastating aftermath of the heart-shattering accident. Trenae poignantly stated, “This was a senseless tragedy. She’ll always have to deal with this pain.”
In the wake of the heartbreaking tragedy, the close-knit neighborhood remains in shock, collectively mourning the loss of a young life that touched many hearts. Irene Torres, a resident deeply affected by the incident, remarked on the tight community bonds, stating that it’s a small community where all the kids know each other. She added that she can imagine how the mother feels, expressing a sense of deep sadness.
Kenia Thomas Joachim, a neighboring mother, expressed the profound impact on her own family, revealing that her son had lost his best friend in the tragic accident. Joachim conveyed the difficulty her son faces in comprehending the situation, saying, “He just saw [Elyas]…He just knows that his best friend—he’s not going to see his best friend, so I know it’s hard for him.”
To honor and remember the young boy, a vigil was organized on Wednesday night (January 17). The outpouring of support was evident as more than 100 people gathered, adorning the memorial site with poignant tributes, including flowers, balloons, teddy bears, and heartfelt notes.
