The Independent

The elementary school at Bkejwanong is closed for the remainder of the week after an accident which claimed the life of one of the students.

Tuesday, just before 7 pm, an SUV with four people inside crashed at the corner of the St. Clair Parkway and West Smith Line in Sombra. A six-year-old from Walpole Island died. The others in the car were all taken to hospital with serious injuries, OPP said.

The Walpole Island First Nation Board of Education sent out a letter the next day to parents and students announcing the school would be closed for the remainder of the week after “a tragic event that resulted in the loss of a young life in our community of Bkejwanong.

“This loss has deeply affected our staff and students within the elementary school…as well as the community as a whole,” the board wrote.

The closure, the letter said, would “allow staff, students and the community the space they need to grieve and process this loss.”

The board said counsellors and a crisis team would be available when the students return to class. Community members could also access help Thursday and Friday at the board of education office.

“We understand this devastating news is deeply upsetting, which is why support and resources are being made available to those who need it. We encourage everyone to please reach out if you are affected by this tragedy,” the board wrote, as it asked people not to share information about the accident on social media out of respect for the family.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with every member of our community as we process this tragedy and may you find comfort during this difficult time.”