Amira Aminova, BATH BEACH, Brooklyn — The Brooklyn community is grieving the loss of an 11-year-old girl who was fatally struck by a school bus Thursday afternoon. Authorities have identified the young victim as Amira Aminova. The driver involved, 62-year-old Wawa Aurelus, has been charged with failure to yield to a pedestrian and failure to exercise due care.
According to police, the tragic incident occurred just after 3 p.m. at the intersection of 23rd Avenue and Bath Avenue, shortly after school dismissal. Amira was attempting to cross the street when she was struck. She was quickly transported to Maimonides Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead.
Eyewitnesses described the events leading up to the accident as sudden and shocking. Community members expressed how quickly the situation unfolded and emphasized how vulnerable pedestrians, especially children, can be near busy intersections. One resident reflected on the difficulty of navigating streets with large vehicles and the importance of driver attention, particularly around schools.
Authorities said Aurelus did not remain at the scene immediately after the crash but was later located by police several miles away in Brooklyn. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the timing and positioning of both the pedestrian and the vehicle.
This heartbreaking loss has sent shockwaves through the community, and local leaders, families, and classmates are coming together to mourn Amira. School officials and counselors are expected to provide support to students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Police and safety officials urge drivers and pedestrians alike to exercise extra caution in school zones, particularly during dismissal times when children are frequently crossing streets. Traffic safety remains a shared responsibility, and authorities emphasize that vigilance and awareness can help prevent future tragedies.
Community members are encouraged to keep Amira’s family, friends, and classmates in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time. Messages of support, remembrance, and care can help families and neighbors process grief and begin to heal.
The Brooklyn Police Department said they will continue reviewing all aspects of the incident and will provide updates as new information becomes available. Authorities are asking anyone with information about the accident to come forward to support the investigation.
As the city reflects on this tragic event, the focus remains on honoring Amira’s life, supporting those affected, and reminding the public of the importance of safe practices around school zones. This incident serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can be changed and the responsibility everyone shares in keeping streets safe.
