Crossing guard hit by car near Lexington school dies

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - A crossing guard hit by a car in Lexington has died.

It happened Tuesday morning near Garrett Morgan Elementary School at Polo Club Blvd. and Passage Mound Way.

We were initially told the crossing guard, now identified by the coroner as 73-year-old James Arthur Holland, was taken to UK Hospital to be treated for what was described as serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

However, the coroner reports Holland passed away late Wednesday night at the hospital.

The driver was cited for no insurance, expired registration and not having their driver’s license in their possession. However, police say, at this time, they do not believe criminal charges will be brought against the driver.

For those who live in the area, Hollands’ death is tragic but also very concerning.

Terry Sheffield’s daughter walks his grandson to and from Garrett Morgan every day. He heard about Holland’s death and says they have had constant issues with drivers not stopping for those in the crosswalks.

“Very unfortunate that something like this would happen. But certainly, they need to take a look at it and see what other precautions they need to put in place to address this and to make sure something so tragic doesn’t happen again,” said Sheffield.

The incident remains under investigation.

The Lexington Police Department released this statement about Holland:

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.

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