‘It’s heartbreaking’: Teen hit and killed by car when crossing street walking home from work

HENRICO, Va. (WWBT/Gray News) - An investigation is underway after a 15-year-old was hit and killed by a vehicle while he was on his way home over the weekend.

Henrico County police said the crash happened around 8 p.m. on Sunday by the Staples Mill Plaza Shopping Center.

The teen was identified by his family as Hermitage High School 10th grader Nathaniel Clark.

Police said the 15-year-old died at the scene and the driver involved was cooperating with them.

The teen’s mom said that her son was leaving his job at Firehouse Subs and walking home when he was hit.

Investigators are looking into what may have caused the crash but said alcohol does not appear to be a factor.

This was the second deadly crash to occur on the same road in less than two weeks. A 2-year-old was killed on Aug. 29.

Henrico County officials said they are actively working to improve lighting along the Staples Mill Road corridor, but it takes collaboration and approval from the state department of transportation.

“It’s heartbreaking that we are here less than two weeks since we last spoke about another fatal accident with a pedestrian,” Terrell Hughes, with public works, said. “It is a very high priority in terms of just what’s going on trying to improve safety.”

Hermitage High School Principal Michael Jackson said it was heartbreaking to hear of the student’s death.

“It is with a heavy heart I am reaching out to you about a loss to our Panther community. Understandably, the death of a classmate is traumatic for our students and faculty,” his statement read in part. “We want to wrap our arms around the young man’s family as they cope with their profound loss.”

Jackon said counselors will be available at the school with a vigil being held for Nathaniel on Thursday.

Anyone with further information regarding Sunday’s crash has been urged to contact the Henrico Police Department at 804-501-5000.