RHS Safety Scare: Student Struck in Crosswalk – Sun Glare May Have Played a Role!
photos courtesy of Boyd Loving’s Facebook page
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
RIDGEWOOD, NJ – A frightening incident unfolded in front of Ridgewood High School (RHS) on Friday morning, October 10, 2025, when a 15-year-old student was struck by a vehicle while attempting to cross the street shortly after 8:00 AM.
The incident highlights crucial safety concerns surrounding pedestrian activity in school zones, especially during peak commuter and school-drop-off times.
Details of the Incident
According to the Ridgewood Police Department (RPD), the accident occurred around 8 a.m.
Ridgewood Police Captain Glenn Ender confirmed that the 15-year-old male student was walking in the crosswalk at Heermance Place when he was struck by a minivan driven by a 50-year-old male.
Upon arrival, Ridgewood PD Patrol Division officers found the victim conscious and alert. An ambulance from Ridgewood FD/EMS, assisted by paramedics from The Valley Hospital, transported the student to Hackensack University Medical Center’s main campus for evaluation and treatment.
Confirmed Injuries and Driver Summons
Thankfully, initial reports from the Ridgewood Public Schools (RPS) indicate the student’s injuries were not severe.
In a public statement on Facebook, RPS commented: “The car was rolling, not actually driving at a speed, but did run into the student. Out of an abundance of caution, our student was escorted to the hospital… We have now confirmed this. We are grateful that no serious injuries were experienced by anyone involved in or around the incident.” The statement noted the student appeared to sustain only minor cuts and abrasions.
Following the investigation, the RPD issued the driver two summonses:
- Failure to Stop for a Pedestrian in a Crosswalk.
- Failure to Yield to a Pedestrian.
Police noted that early morning sun glare may have been a contributing factor in the incident.
A Critical Reminder for Drivers and Students
This close call serves as a critical reminder for everyone in the community regarding safety in school zones, particularly during the first hours of the school day:
- Drivers: Be hyper-vigilant in and around school zones. Always be prepared to stop for pedestrians, especially at crosswalks. Reduce speed and utilize sun visors to combat glare. The law is clear: drivers must stop and yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
- Students/Pedestrians: Use marked crosswalks whenever possible. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before stepping into the roadway, especially when visibility is poor (like during sun glare).
The Ridgewood Police Department and Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47 were on the scene to manage the situation and ensure the student received prompt care.
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Take a look at the shadows, especially in the second image. Sun glare WAS the issue. Abe is a really good kid, glad he is fine.
Thanks for providing the name of the 15 year old, very important that we get this information.