A tragic collision involving a school bus stop in Prince Edward Island has claimed the life of teenage student Isabella Bastardo Jiménez, leaving the community grieving a devastating loss that has deeply impacted families, classmates, educators, and residents across the province.
The fatal incident occurred Thursday morning on Route 2 near Dunstaffnage, roughly 13 kilometres east of Charlottetown. According to authorities, Isabella was preparing to board her school bus shortly before 8 a.m. when she was struck by a tractor-trailer traveling in the opposite direction of the bus. Officials stated that the school bus had activated its flashing yellow warning lights as it prepared to stop.
Emergency crews responded rapidly to the scene and provided urgent medical care before Isabella was airlifted to Halifax for specialized treatment. Despite extensive efforts by medical teams over several days, she succumbed to her injuries on Monday.
Her passing was confirmed by the Latinos Association of P.E.I., while her family also shared an emotional statement through City Impact Church. In their message, Isabella’s parents expressed heartbreak over the loss of their daughter while thanking supporters, medical staff, and the wider community for their compassion and prayers throughout the ordeal.
The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief and support throughout Prince Edward Island. Friends, classmates, and community members gathered at a special service hosted by City Impact Church at the University of Prince Edward Island to honor Isabella’s memory and stand beside her family during this painful time.
Support services and counseling have also been made available through the Public Schools Branch to assist students and staff affected by the tragedy.
Meanwhile, a fundraising campaign created to support Isabella’s family has received overwhelming support, with donations continuing to pour in from across the region and beyond.
The RCMP investigation into the collision remains ongoing as authorities continue working to determine the full circumstances surrounding the heartbreaking incident.