Tragic Loss in the Community

In an unimaginable tragedy, the city of London is reeling from the devastating loss of 7-year-old Dante Caranci, who was struck and killed by a vehicle shortly after getting off a school bus outside his home. A funeral service is set for Saturday, where family and friends will gather to remember a boy described as a 'kind-hearted soul.'

Details of the Incident

Dante's life was cut short after the collision, which took place around 4 p.m. on Monday on Longwoods Road, near Murray Road in the Lambeth area. Despite being rushed to the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday. The local police have confirmed that their investigation into the incident is ongoing, urging witnesses or anyone who may have relevant video footage to come forward.

Community Reaction and Support

The news of Dante's tragic death has sparked widespread grief and outrage within the community. Witnesses described seeing a school bus parked on Longwoods Road as Dante attempted to cross the busy roadway to reach his family’s home. A transport truck was also reportedly behind the bus, contributing to the hazardous situation.

Dante attended Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic elementary school, where he was beloved by classmates and teachers alike. His grandmother, Judy Madzia, expressed her heartbreak, affirming that 'everybody loved Dante.' He is survived by his parents, Stefano and Jacqueline, and his nine-year-old brother, among other family members.

Fundraising Efforts

An outpouring of support has emerged in the wake of this tragedy, with a GoFundMe campaign established for the Caranci family already surpassing $145,000 in donations by Thursday afternoon. Messages of condolence flooded social media, with many calling for improved safety measures to protect children near busy roads.

'I am extremely heartbroken by this tragedy,' one donor wrote. 'Something must be done; every child should come home safe from school.' Another community member remarked, 'Our Delaware community is grieving... this is an unimaginable time for this family.'

Hockey Tribute

In response to the loss, Lambeth’s minor hockey league has urged community members to honor Dante’s love for the sport by placing hockey sticks outside their homes, a poignant symbol of unity in mourning.

Investigation and Funeral Arrangements

As the investigation continues, London police remain in contact with the involved parties, expressing their condolences to the family and all emergency personnel who attended the scene.

Visitations for Dante are set for Friday at the O’Neil Funeral Home from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., followed by a mass at St. Mary’s Church on Saturday morning. The family has requested attendees wear hockey jerseys to celebrate Dante’s passion for the game he loved.

A Reminder of Road Safety

This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly in areas frequented by children. The community's response reflects the profound impact that a vibrant young life can have on those around him, even in the face of such a tragic end. To contribute to the support for the Caranci family, donations can be made on the GoFundMe page set up in his memory.