By Philip Haldiman
Mail | Twitter: @PhilipHaldiman

A Sunset Heights Elementary School student in Peoria remains in critical condition after being hit by a vehicle March 9 at 98th Avenue and Deer Valley Road, police said.

Police say impairment does not appear to be a factor.

Deer Valley Road was closed yesterday between Lake Pleasant Parkway and 91st Avenue as police continued to investigate in the late morning.

The student, who walks to Liberty High School in the morning for a first hour class, was hit by the vehicle in the crosswalk, according to a statement by Sunset Heights Principal Rae Conelley.

She said a crisis support team has been set up at both campuses to help any students who may need additional support.

"The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority," she said. "This is an opportune time to remind your child to be vigilant and aware in high traffic areas when walking to and from school."

She thanked parents for their patience with the situation.

Philip Haldiman
News Editor | Peoria
@PhilipHaldiman

phaldiman@iniusa.org

Philip Haldiman is a fourth generation Arizona native with brief residencies on the east and west coasts. He has bachelor’s degrees in Theater and Journalism at Arizona State University, and is an award winning journalist with more than 15 years worth of experience in reporting and editing. Most recently, he took first place for investigative reporting and third place for best sustained coverage or series at the 2023 Arizona Newspapers Association awards. In his free time, he produces an autobiographical comic book about his time spent in Hollywood and his life as a cult film star.