A 17-year-old senior at Lake Minneola High School tragically died on Monday morning after being struck by a school bus while riding his bicycle at the entrance to the school. Sherman Vannoy was pronounced dead at South Lake Hospital after the collision, which occurred at around 6:50 a.m. The Florida Highway Patrol reported that Vannoy was riding his bike on a sidewalk when he entered a marked crosswalk just as the school bus was attempting to turn into the school. The front of the bus hit Vannoy and subsequently veered off the road, striking a stop sign and fence. The bus driver, a 78-year-old woman, was uninjured but distraught.
Lake County Schools expressed their condolences and stated that they are providing support to Vannoy’s family. Grief counselors will be available at Lake Minneola High School throughout the week to assist students and faculty. A memorial will also be held for Vannoy during the school’s Monday night football game. All on-campus sporting practices and a scheduled volleyball game for that evening have been canceled. An ongoing investigation is being carried out to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic accident.
This heartbreaking incident highlights the importance of road safety and vigilance. It serves as a reminder for both drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution and attentiveness to prevent such accidents. The community is rallying together to support the victim’s family and to provide emotional support to those affected by this tragic loss. Lake Minneola High School is taking measures to honor Vannoy’s memory and provide necessary resources to cope with the grief.