Grand Island student struck, killed on South Parkway identified

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — A Grand Island eighth grader was struck and killed by a vehicle on Wednesday night.

Police say around 8 p.m. on Sept. 11, patrol responded to the intersection of South State Parkway and Broadway for a person with serious injuries. The pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle.

Despite lifesaving efforts performed by a witness, police and ambulance crews, the victim was confirmed to be deceased. She was identified as eighth grader Leah Mayer.

In a Facebook post on Thursday, Superintendent of Grand Island Schools Brian Graham said Mayer was “selfless, a loyal friend, and a constant source of positivity” and that “her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her.”

Residents of the area say the State Parkway and Broadway intersection is unsafe and requires more than just the red flashing light it has.

“It’s loud, they’re hot-rodding, there’s places for that,” said Grand Island resident Kurt Fiedler. “This, in front of a kid’s school, shouldn’t be it.”

The Erie County Sheriff’s Office said Friday that the driver is a juvenile and no charges have been filed. There were no signs of impairment.

They started a petition to install a traffic light and crossing signals at the intersection. You can click here to sign. In the meantime, the New York State Department of Transportation says they will conduct a safety review of the area.

Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.