West Side Parents Want More Crossing Guards After Boy, 9, Killed By Driver Outside School

Anakin Perez, a 9-year-old student at McNair Elementary, was struck and killed by a driver on Thursday morning while crossing the street. His death has sparked a community outcry for more safety measures, particularly the addition of crossing guards, as the school currently has only one. During a vigil, family and friends remembered Anakin as an energetic and friendly child, lamenting the preventable nature of the tragedy. Ald. Emma Mitts highlighted the need for increased safety resources, stating that every child should be able to walk to school safely.

Chicago Public Schools confirmed that budget cuts this summer led to the layoff of crossing guards but noted that McNair was not affected by these cutbacks. Community members expressed frustration over the lack of action despite previous complaints about safety. The ongoing investigation into the incident has led to the driver's citation for failure to exercise due care. Local parents are demanding immediate changes to ensure student safety on their routes to school.