As graduation approaches, a tragedy has cast a shadow over the Arbor View High School community. Just 25 days shy of her graduation, 18-year-old McKenzie Scott was struck and killed by a vehicle, mere steps from the school’s main entrance, in a heart-wrenching incident that has left classmates, teachers, and parents reeling.
The accident occurred shortly after 11 a.m. on a Friday morning on North Buffalo Drive, adjacent to the school’s property in the far northern part of Las Vegas. Witnesses reported that Scott was in a designated crosswalk when she was hit, underscoring the sensitivity and seriousness of this accident. Despite immediate medical attention, Scott was pronounced dead shortly after her arrival at University Medical Center, a loss that has deeply affected the entire Arbor View community.
Principal Duane Bickmore expressed the school’s sorrow in a letter, stating, “We are mourning the loss of this young life.” He extended his thoughts both to Scott’s family and to the school community, emphasizing the need for collective healing in the wake of such a tragic event. The mourning was palpable, as students and faculty reflected on the bright future that was lost far too soon.
Following the incident, Metro Lt. Anthony Cavaricci provided updates regarding the driver involved. Identified as 37-year-old Keenan Jackson of Las Vegas, he was reportedly driving a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu when the collision occurred. Jackson remained at the scene, but subsequent police investigations indicated signs of impairment during field sobriety tests, leading to his arrest. Detailed reports suggest Jackson failed to yield the right of way before impacting Scott, highlighting the acute need for vigilance around school zones.
In the wake of the accident, Clark County School District Superintendent Jhone Ebert labeled the loss as “unimaginable,” reflecting on how Scott, a senior nearing graduation, was anticipating a bright future. Ebert urged drivers in the area to remain cautious, especially near school zones where students are present.
As the investigation continued, Bickmore assured parents and students that counseling support would be readily available for anyone struggling with the emotional aftermath of the incident. “This is a police investigation, and while we do not have further information to provide, we must remind everyone to exercise extreme caution while driving near schools,” he declared.
Following the tragedy, students and faculty returned to campus activities. A dance show and a spring football practice continued as scheduled, demonstrating the community’s resilience even amidst grief. However, the atmosphere weighed heavily with sadness. Observers noted that the vicinity around Arbor View High School is often chaotic, particularly on Buffalo Drive, which is known for its high traffic and speeding violations.
Community members have begun to share concerns about the safety of the crosswalks in the area. Kat Norris, the wife of the football coach, remarked that the stretch of road is particularly perilous, suggesting that infrastructure improvements, such as traffic lights, are urgently needed to protect students. Similarly, Tina Weaver, a parent of another student, echoed these sentiments, expressing that it is deeply troubling to think of the safety risks involved in daily commutes to school.
As darkness fell on the day of the accident, students gathered at the crash site to pay tribute to their lost classmate. Flowers, posters, and candles adorned the area, with heartfelt messages like “Rest in Peace. Heaven gained an angel” and “Forever 18” underscoring the grief felt by the student body. Many lamented the lack of proper safety measures in the vicinity, pointing out faded crosswalk markings and the absence of flashing warning lights, which could prevent future tragedies.
McKenzie Scott’s untimely death marks a sobering moment in the community, raising pressing questions about traffic safety around schools. As the 59th traffic-related fatality in Metro’s jurisdiction this year, her story serves as a stark reminder of the pressing need for enhanced protective measures in areas where young people navigate daily.
For many, this tragic incident is not just a statistic; it is a reminder of the shared responsibility we have to ensure the safety of our streets, particularly those surrounding schools. As Arbor View High School comes together to mourn, the call for change resonates loud and clear, demonstrating that one life lost can echo in the hearts of many.