4th-Grader Dies After Being Struck By SUV In Simi Valley

SIMI VALLEY (CBSLA.com) — A fourth-grader died Thursday after being struck by an SUV outside his school in Simi Valley.

The accident happened about 2:20 p.m. outside Madera Elementary School on Royal Avenue, where the boy attended, according to Simi Valley police.

"The cause of the collision surrounds a bit of horseplay along the sidewalk involving a game of pushing. The victim in this case fell into the roadway in front of an oncoming vehicle that was driving at a slow speed," according to a police press release.

Investigators said the boy suffered severe head injuries and was rushed to Robles Hospital, where he was listed in critical condition. Several hours later, the child was taken off life support, according to police.

Investigators said the driver did everything possible to avoid the child.

CBS2/KCAL9's Peter Daut spoke to a family who knew the boy. They said his sister was walking home with him before he was hit by the vehicle.

Grief counselors will be on hand at the school Friday to help students and teachers affected by the tragedy.