PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY, Md. — The family of 5-year-old Sky Sosa, who was fatally struck by a van in a marked crosswalk near Riverdale Elementary School last year, has filed a lawsuit against the school district, the driver, and the vehicle’s owner.
The tragic incident occurred on November 20, 2023, when Sky and 10-year-old Shalom Mbah were crossing Taylor Road in the crosswalk, accompanied by an adult. Police say the van, driven by Olga Lugo Jimenez, made a left turn and struck the group. The children were critically injured and later died, while the adult sustained minor injuries.
The crash highlighted a crossing guard shortage in Prince George’s County, prompting police officers to temporarily step in as crossing guards.
In June, a grand jury indicted Jimenez on multiple charges, including criminally negligent manslaughter.
On Monday, Sky’s family filed a wrongful death lawsuit, alleging that the school district failed to provide a crossing guard despite knowing the risks, leaving the crosswalk unprotected for months. The lawsuit also accuses the county of systemic failures in traffic safety and emergency response, claiming delays in Sky’s transport to the hospital contributed to his death.
“This tragedy could have been avoided if better choices were made,” said attorney Daniel Cohen, emphasizing the need for increased safety measures in school zones.
Prince George’s County Public Schools declined to comment on the pending litigation.
