NORWOOD, N.J.—A 13-year-old Norwood Public School student was struck by a bus on June 14 as he attempted to cross South Avenue near Clinton Street, according to town officials.
Mayor James Barsa told Northern Valley Press that teenager Lucas Soliman, 13, a seventh-grader, was apparently crossing South Avenue when, according to police, a bus driver from the Rinaldi Bus Co. of Closter signaled for him to cross.
However, another company bus heading in the same direction did not stop and hit the teenager, according to police.
Actually, Lucas stepped into the moving bus going toward Livingston Street, which knocked him to the ground and injured his leg, according to police reports.
Barsa said that there are five crossing guards at intersections near the school but he would consider the addition of another guard, after consulting with Police Chief Jeffrey Krapels.
According to published reports, Lucas’ right foot was run over by the bus, and he had scrapes from his waist up to his chin after the accident.
His father, William Soliman, told news outlets that he believed that had there been another crossing guard in the area, the accident might not have occurred.
“Obviously it was terrible and it’s a situation we want to look at to make sure everyone is safe in the future there,” said Barsa.
The mayor and Councilman Paul Haberman paid a visit to Lucas June 17 at home to boost his spirits.
“He appeared to be in good shape basically,” said the mayor of his visit.
Barsa noted the importance of making sure students can cross safely near the local school.
If adding another crossing guard is needed to improve student safety starting in September, it will be done, said Barsa.