Mother, 33, killed after being struck by car in Tippin Elementary parking lot
A mother was killed and three children were injured when aman struck them in the parking lot of Tippin Elementary in west El Paso on Aug.13. (SBG Photo)
EL PASO, Texas — On the second day of school, officials with El Paso Independent School District, addressed their community about the tragic event that unfolded at Tippin Elementary School Monday afternoon.
The EPISD police chief said the incident happened when students were being dismissed for the day.
He said 58-year-old Roger Hawkins, who seemed disoriented, was pulling out of a parking space and struck a group of children, said police Chief Victor Araiza.
When bystanders approached Hawkins, he seemed confused, said Araiza.
Hawkins then placed his vehicle in reverse and struck the mother, Araiza said.
Kharisma Aslee James, 33, died from her injuries, according to school district police.
Her two children, ages 7 and 6, were injured in the incident. The third child, a 10-year-old, is a student at the school.
The children were taken to the hospital and are in serious condition, but are expected to survive.
“The fault rests on the individual operating the vehicle, not the school administration,” said Araiza.
EPISD Superintendent Juan Cabrera said he plans on speaking more with parents about taking precautions at their schools.
He said he and administrators will work on improving the drop-off protocol at schools. He asks parents to slow down in school zones and around campuses.
EPISD officials said there is support on campus for students, teachers and parents.
The investigation is ongoing.
*Editorial Note: EPISD incorrectly spelled the Hawkins' last name. The article reflects the correct spelling.
