A Texas family is grappling with the loss of their second grader after the girl was killed in a tragic accident. While being dropped off at school, the girl was struck by a car. Sadly, the same car that dropped her off was the car that killed her.
Police have not released details about the driver of the car. The situation appears to be a tragic accident, and the effects will be felt for a long time. Now, people are gathering to remember the young girl for being a bright light to those who knew her.
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On January 24, 2025, police and emergency medical services were called to Gateway Elementary School after a reported incident in the school drop-off line, the Borger Police Department said in a statement.
According to the statement, a second grader’s jacket got caught in the door of the vehicle she was getting out of, resulting in the deadly accident. “Despite the presence of a senior school administrator who immediately attempted to intervene, the incident happened so quickly that it could not be stopped,” the statement read.
School staff and first responders attempted life-saving measures, but sadly the little one died as a result of her injuries. At the time of the incident, the police did not release the child’s name or any details “out of respect for the family.”
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However, they have since changed their stance. Borger Assistant City Manager and Public Onformation Officer Brandon Strope released a statement that People published identifying the victim as 8-year-old Serenity Campos. Strope called the girl’s death a “heartbreaking loss” for her community.
Later, Strope shared additional details about the tragic accident. “As the vehicle began to pull away, the motion caused Serenity to fall and be struck by the vehicle,” Strope explained.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Serenity’s family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time,” he said.
A memorial set up in front of Gateway Elementary School is full of teddy bears “reflecting the joy and innocence [Serenity] brought to those around her.” According to a post by the Borger Police, Walmart donated teddy bears for students to leave. Counselors and support dogs have been at the school to comfort the community.
In her obituary, Serenity was described as a girl who “had a huge heart and loved BIG.” The obituary also said she was “caring and protective big sister and friend, or “little mom,” who didn’t like to see “anybody crying or sad.”
“Serenity was a friend to everyone, and claimed many people as ‘cousins,’ even if they weren’t actually related to her. She knew no stranger, and wanted to always be around her friends. Serenity had a contagious smile — and she was ALWAYS smiling!” the obituary reads.
A GoFundMe aims to help the family as they grieve the loss of their daughter. Her parents have three other children to care for.
