Johnston police have confirmed a 13-year-old boy died after being hit by a truck while riding his bicycle.
Emergency responders were called to the 6600 block of Merle Hay Road just before 6:00 o'clock Tuesday evening. The boy is identified as Ali Hashim, a student at Johnston Middle School.
Johnston Superintendent Dr. Corey Lunn released a statement saying the district will provide counseling services at the middle school available for students, staff, parents, and community members from 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day this week.
The district also encourages parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts and behavior for signs that they may be struggling with grief.
The school has provided an online resource for those in need, which can be found here. A student assistance program offered through Unity Point Health can also be utilized free of charge for Johnston students and family members. Appointments can be made by calling 263-4004.
Police say the driver of the truck, 36-year-old Matthew Scott Nielsen of Granger was not drug or alcohol impaired at the time, but their investigation is continuing.
WHO-TV reports the funeral arrangements for Hashim have not been released, yet.
A memorial fund has been established and contributions can be made to Ali Hashim Memorial Fund, Zion Lutheran Church, 4300 Beaver Drive, Des Moines, Iowa, 50310.