LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — A crossing guard has died after being struck by a vehicle in the area of Polo Club Boulevard near Garrett Morgan Elementary.
The coroner identified the victim as 73-year-old James Arthur Holland. His death has been ruled an accident.
Officers responded to the intersection of Polo Club Boulevard and Passage Mound Way around 8 a.m. Tuesday for a crossing guard who had been hit by a vehicle.
Police say the crossing guard was in the roadway when he was struck. He was transported to UK Hospital where he died.
No criminal charges are expected at this time, according to police.
Officials say they believe environmental conditions led to the collision and not speeding, impairment, or failure to follow traffic control devices.
The school crossing guard program is part of the Lexington Police Department. He had been with the department since April 5, 2021.
Mr. Holland was a beloved member of the Lexington Police Department family. He came to work every day with a smile on his face to ensure the safety of the youngest members of our community. We want to offer our condolences to his friends, family, and the students and staff of Garrett Morgan Elementary, whom he served daily. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him.
Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton released a statement on Twitter regarding the incident.
I am saddened by the passing of one of our crossing guards. James Holland was an important part of the daily routine for many families at Garrett Morgan Elementary School. Our crossing guards are an essential part of our public safety team. (1/2)
— Mayor Linda Gorton (@MayorGorton) April 13, 2023
Fayette County Public Schools extended their sympathy to friends and family as well.
We are deeply saddened by the news that Mr. James Holland, a dedicated school crossing guard with Lexington Police serving Garrett Morgan Elementary, passed away this morning. A car accidentally struck Mr. Holland on Tuesday morning while he was performing his duties. pic.twitter.com/SIvkXIwjJh
— Fayette County Public Schools (@FCPSKY) April 13, 2023
Kentucky Representative Andy Barr shared Fayette County Public Schools tweet writing:
Please join me in praying for the family of Mr. Holland, the Lexington Police Department, and the Garrett Morgan Elementary School community during this tremendously difficult time.
Funeral arrangements for Holland are happening at 12 p.m. Tuesday, April 18 at Kerr Brothers Funeral Home on Main Street. Visitation is from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. with interment to follow the funeral service at Hillcrest Memorial Park.
