9 students hospitalized after car leaves pickup line, hops curb at Iowa school
By Kelby Wingert
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ANKENY, Iowa (KCCI) — Nine students were transported to hospitals after a vehicle struck multiple pedestrians at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School in Ankeny on Tuesday afternoon, authorities said.
According to Ankeny Police Sgt. Trevor McGraw, the incident happened at about 3:15 p.m. in the school’s pickup line when a vehicle went up and over a curb where students were waiting, striking several of them.
Nine students were taken to local hospitals, with patients split between Blank Children’s Hospital and MercyOne. Officials have not released any updates on their conditions, but say all affected parents have been notified.
The crash occurred during dismissal, when “there were a lot of students out… and parents coming through picking up kids,” McGraw said.
Authorities say the driver remained on the scene and was not injured. Investigators do not believe the incident was intentional, but the crash remains under investigation.
Other parents in the pick-up line were quick to respond to those injured students, McGraw said.
“A lot of parents stepped up and were helping stabilize injuries and care for those who had been affected by the car accident,” he said.
A KCCI crew at the scene shortly after the incident reported more than a dozen emergency vehicles, including ambulances, fire trucks and police.
School staff and the district assisted students in the immediate aftermath and have been in communication with families. Officials also confirmed that some students remain on site for an after-school program and are safe.
The school, which serves students from elementary through eighth grade, implemented adjusted pickup procedures following the incident.
“An accident occurred today during student pickup at St. Luke the Evangelist Parish and School,” the school posted on its website following the incident. “School personnel responded immediately, and emergency crews arrived within minutes. The safety and well-being of our families and staff remain our highest priority. Out of respect for those involved and their families, we are not sharing additional information at this time.
“We ask you to pray for healing, comfort, and peace for all those affected.”
Authorities are urging the public to avoid the area to allow emergency crews clear access. More information is expected to be released as it becomes available.
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