HOLLAND TOWNSHIP, Mich. - A 16-year-old West Ottawa High School student was walking to her bus stop Wednesday morning when she was fatally struck by a car.
The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office said the girl, identified as Aline Mapendo, was walking west on James Street near Beech Street, when she was hit by a car traveling east. The crash was reported to police at 7:12 a.m.
The 50-year-old Holland woman who was driving the car said she didn't see Mapendo until the time of impact, police said.
The 16-year-old was transported to Holland Hospital in an ambulance, but she was pronounced dead at the hospital. The driver of the car was not injured.
"It was just dark and from the pedestrian perspective. She was in dark clothes; it was hard to see her, I presume," said Ottawa County Sheriff Sgt. David VanderPloeg.
The incident is still being investigated.
West Ottawa High School's Principal Jason Reinecke issued this statement:
“It’s difficult to express the sense of heartbreak and loss our student body feels today. The thoughts of the entire West Ottawa Public Schools community are with the student’s family and friends at this time. We have services and resources on campus to help our students and staff, and members of our crisis response team are available today and in the coming days to meet one-on-one and in groups with those in need of support.”
The Ottawa County Sheriff's Department is urging pedestrians to wear light colored clothing or reflectors. They encourage drivers to remain vigilant, especially during this time of year when the visibility is low and roads can be icy.
The case will be sent to the prosecutors office for any potential charges.
RELATED VIDEO:
Other stories on 13 ON YOUR SIDE:
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.