KERRVILLE, TX – A 17-year-old student from Hill Country High School is recovering in a San Antonio hospital after a collision with a Kerrville Independent School District (KISD) bus last week. The incident, which occurred on , has prompted an investigation and raised questions about pedestrian and skateboarder safety near school bus routes.
Zayne Boggs was skateboarding eastbound on Schreiner Street when he turned onto the sidewalk along Sidney Baker Street, traveling southbound, according to a report from the Texas Department of Transportation. He reportedly lost his balance, fell into the street, struck the side of the school bus, and was then run over by the rear tires. The crash took place around 3:00 p.m. In the 400 block of North Sidney Baker Street.
The severity of Boggs’ injuries necessitated airlift transport to a San Antonio hospital, where he has already undergone five surgeries. Speaking from his hospital bed via video call to KSAT, Boggs recounted hitting “rumble strips” just before the collision, noting the bus was traveling in the same direction. His mother, Jessica Boggs, detailed the extent of his injuries, stating that doctors “stopped counting at five” pelvic fractures. Despite the trauma, she emphasized his resilience, calling him “a fighter.”
The incident highlights the vulnerability of non-motorized road users, particularly in areas with frequent school bus traffic. While the investigation is ongoing, the circumstances suggest a loss of control while skateboarding contributed to the accident. The lack of physical protection afforded to skateboarders, combined with the potential for sudden changes in balance, creates a heightened risk when interacting with vehicular traffic.
Kerrville ISD has acknowledged the incident and stated it is cooperating fully with authorities. In a statement released to KSAT, the district affirmed its commitment to the student’s well-being and recovery, adding that the principal has been in regular contact with the family. The district’s statement reads: “We are aware of the incident involving one of our students and our KISD bus. Our thoughts are with the student and their family… The safety and well-being of our students is always our top priority, and we are working closely with the family and appropriate authorities to ensure the student has everything they need during recovery.”
The financial implications for the Boggs family are significant, prompting a fundraising effort to help cover the mounting medical expenses and ongoing care. The long road to recovery will likely involve extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation, adding to the financial burden. While the district has pledged support, the full extent of financial assistance remains unclear.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing traffic-related injuries in Texas. According to data from the Texas Department of Transportation, someone is injured in a traffic crash in the state every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. While this statistic encompasses all types of collisions, it underscores the pervasive risk on Texas roadways.
The legal ramifications of the accident are also under consideration. While the investigation is still underway, potential liability could fall on multiple parties, including the student, the bus driver, or the school district, depending on the findings. Factors such as adherence to traffic laws, bus driver training, and the condition of the roadway will likely be scrutinized.
The case also raises broader questions about the safety of skateboarders and other non-motorized users sharing roadways with larger vehicles. While skateboarding is a common mode of transportation for teenagers, particularly near schools, the inherent risks are substantial. The absence of protective gear and the potential for sudden loss of control necessitate increased awareness and caution from both riders and drivers.
As Zayne Boggs continues his recovery, the community is rallying around him and his family. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of prioritizing safety on our roads. The outcome of the investigation will be crucial in determining the factors that contributed to the crash and in preventing similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The long-term impact on Boggs’ physical and emotional well-being remains to be seen. However, his mother’s unwavering optimism and his own described strength suggest a determined path toward recovery. The support of the Kerrville community and the ongoing investigation will be vital in ensuring a positive outcome for all involved.
