Photo courtesy Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department

According to information released by Bartholomew County Sheriff Matt Myers, law enforcement officers from the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office, Columbus Police Department and Indiana State Police are investigating a fatal hit and run crash involving a high school student that occurred earlier this morning.

At approximately 6:55 a.m., officers responded to the 1900 block of South Gladstone Avenue in regards to the incident. Witnesses reported that a Columbus East student was attempting to get on a stopped school bus when they were struck by a passenger car. The driver of the car fled the scene and was followed by a witness who observed the crash. The suspect was located a short time later on County Road 250 East where he was taken into custody.

The student was transported to Columbus Regional Hospital where they died as a result of their injuries.

The investigation into the hit and run crash is ongoing.

Additional information including the identity of both the suspect and student involved in the crash is expected to be released later today.

“We are working closely with Bartholomew County School Corporation officials in regards to this investigation,” said Major Chris Lane. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family. A tragic event like this affects many people and we are thinking of everyone involved.”