SAN MARCOS, Texas — Central Texas school districts are encouraging community members to wear purple on Monday in honor of an 11-year-old Goodnight Middle School student who was hit and killed on Friday in San Marcos.
The incident happened during morning drop-off when a vehicle struck the student in the parking lot. San Marcos police said the driver of the vehicle was identified and no charges are expected.
Multiple Central Texas school districts are asking people to wear purple on Monday. Purple is San Marcos CISD’s color.
“Lockhart ISD is holding the community of Goodnight Middle School and San Marcos CISD in our hearts during this difficult time,” Lockhart ISD said in a social media post. “Please join us in showing a LockHeart for Goodnight Middle School by wearing purple on Monday February 27.”
Luling ISD also expressed support in a social media post on Sunday.
“Luling ISD is holding the San Marcos school community in our thoughts and prayers,” the district said. “Please join us in our heartfelt show of support for our neighbors at Goodnight Middle School by wearing PURPLE on Monday, 2/27.”
Hays CISD schools were also asking the community to wear purple, including Hays High School and Pfluger Elementary.
Outside of school districts, Hays County Crime Stoppers also encouraged all those who want to show support for the family, students and staff of Goodnight Middle School to wear purple.
On Saturday, the San Marcos community came together for a prayer vigil as families grieve together.
“Dr. Cardona, our superintendent, told us that he didn't have words for this, and none of us have words for this, but know that our school district and our community is strong,” Mari Salmi, San Marcos ISD board member, told KVUE.
Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra sent out a tweet regarding the incident, stating that, "The tragedy at Goodnight Middle School has broken our hearts and shaken our community. We pray for the parents, the teachers, the students, the witnesses, and for our 11-year-old angel."