RIVERDALE, Md. — The family of 5-year-old Sky Sosa, who was fatally struck in a crosswalk near Riverdale Elementary School, is moving ahead with a wrongful death lawsuit against Prince George’s County after a judge ruled the case could proceed.
Sky was one of two children killed in the November 2023 incident; the other was 10-year-old Shalom Mbah. Sky’s father was also injured in the crash but survived.
The van’s driver, Olga Lugo Jimenez, has pleaded guilty to criminal charges in connection with the crash. Authorities say she was transporting local children to school in a privately operated van and had no official ties to the county’s Board of Education.
In their civil suit, Sky’s family alleges that the county failed to assign a crossing guard to the intersection, which had reportedly been left uncovered for months. The complaint also notes that over 80 other crossing guard positions were vacant countywide, and hiring efforts were delayed until after the tragedy.
The lawsuit additionally names Lugo Jimenez and Ruth Mashell Santos, the registered owner of the van.
Sky’s mother, Laura Palacios, issued a heartfelt statement following the judge’s decision:
“Every morning, Sky would give us a hug — now our mornings are quiet,” she said. “He loved Legos, playing with his siblings, and bringing joy to our home. He had a special light. We’re seeking accountability — not just for Sky, but to help ensure all children get to school safely.”
