Teen hit and killed walking to bus stop

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A teenager was killed when he was walking to the bus stop Thursday morning in Jacksonville.

The crash happened before 6:30 a.m. on Matthew Ungar Drive near Kernan Boulevard. Police closed the road between Pleasure Bay and Casheros Cove drives because of the investigation.

The road reopened just before 12:30 p.m.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the 15-year-old boy was hit by a car. He was taken to UF Health Jacksonville, where he later died.

Family members identified the teen to Action News Jax as Raiden Kelly. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office confirmed Thursday afternoon the teen killed was Raiden Kelly.

Duval County Public Schools released a statement:

"It's with deep sadness and heartache that we learned of the untimely passing of one or our students Thursday morning. On behalf of the Superintendent, the School Board and the entire school community, we want to send our thoughts and prayers to the family and loved ones of the student. Grief counselors are present at the school to provide support to students, faculty and staff. We ask that members of the media please respect the privacy of the family and the school community during this period of grieving."

The driver and passenger in the SUV were not injured. The driver is cooperating with police.

Police say the driver was heading in the same direction of the teen when he was hit.

It appears that the pedestrian was in the street and not on the sidewalk, according to police. It is not known why he wasn't using the sidewalk.

The area was dark and didn't have any streetlights, JSO said.

"We've been saying for years that it's only a matter of time until a student was killed it's dark they walk along in the street," said neighbor Elaine Amwander.

We reached out to Jacksonville city leaders to see how many lighting complaints they’ve received in this area.

The response says in part, “The current administration has not received any street light requests for this area. Since being alerted to this incident, we will undoubtedly review and assess the needs of this community."

Parent Chad Silvia said he was devastated to see the crash as he drove by.

“It's terrible. I have a 17-year-old who doesn't have his license yet, so he walks a lot and it's awful,” said Silvia.

Raiden’s aunt lives in New York. She communicated with Action News Jax through social media.

She posted a picture with the quote, “This is my Nephew, Raiden Michael Kelly. Yesterday he turned 15. Today, he lost his life. He was killed while walking to the school bus at 6:30 am. Words can't express the hurt I feel for his father, my brother, Shawn and our family. R.I.P sweet soul. Where you are now is better than where you've been. We love you.”

Another neighbor who saw the aftermath of the crash said her heart goes out to his family.

"I feel bad for the parents,” said Jasmine Grey.

His  family said he loved video games, and was smart, funny and wanted to be a doctor.

Neighbors have asked for multiple lights to be installed in the area. Action News Jax reached out to the city about the case numbers from the neighbors and waiting to hear back. 

DCPS released this statement: "Our transportation department will review the details of the accident, the location of the bus stop, and determine if any safety improvements are possible."

The investigation is ongoing.

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