Ariana Landis has died weeks after she was hit at a school bus stop, family members and authorities said.
Daniel Whitebread/Facebook Screengrab
According to local media reports, Ariana Landis was trying to board her school bus when she was hit by a car in Pennsylvania.
A little more than two weeks ago, the Northeast High School student was “hospitalized with serious injuries,” according to The Patriot-News. Then Ariana she died from her injuries on Thursday, November 10.
“Arianna was a much-loved Bobcat and a dear friend to many,” the Northeast School District said in a statement obtained by WPMT. “She we will miss you very much.”
Family members confirmed her death on social media.
“Unfortunately, Ariana’s injuries were far more than her small body could handle she was so strong and brave and fought so hard,” Danielle Whitebread wrote on Facebook. “I really can’t find the words to express how devastated we are. All this does not make sense and is unfair.”
“We are very proud that you will be a hero to another family and save the lives of several others,” Whitebread continued. “We have the strongest and most beautiful guardian angel who takes care of us. Get in the saddle and get on the beautiful girl. I hope you have all the horses you always wanted in heaven. See you again.”
Officers with the Newberry Township Police Department responded to the incident shortly after 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 26, according to McClatchy News. Officers discovered that the student had been struck by an oncoming vehicle the school bus stopped.
The the bus stop sign and light worked at the time of the crash, according to the York Daily Record. The driver cooperated with police.
McClatchy News requested an update from police on Nov. 11 and did not receive a response. Authorities told the York Daily Record there was an incident still under investigation.
“I thought I would always be watch you grow and watch you flourish. … You had so many big dreams, you had the best sense of humor,” Addie Weinmiller said on Facebook. “You didn’t grow up perfect, but you grew up happy, and that’s all that mattered. … I hope you run in the meadows and talk to your grandmother. It’s not fair how you had to go this way. …You will always be in my heart. Life is just not fair, but you made every second count. Just know that I loved you like a little sister.”
“It really kills me (life) cut short for you,” wrote Holly Swamley. “I one can only imagine the adventure would you take from Rio and how far would you go. I hope you can still go on and ride the way you dreamed and every horse that goes to heaven will be greeted by your kind beautiful soul.’
The Northeast School District did not immediately respond to a request for comment from McClatchy News. Counseling and support services will be available to students and staff, according to WPMT.
Newberry Township is located approximately 110 miles northwest of Philadelphia.
