Rockville, Maryland — A tragic accident has shaken the Montgomery County community after 11-year-old Summer Lim was struck and killed by a school bus while riding her bicycle home from school. The fatal collision occurred in the quiet suburban neighborhood near Earle B. Wood Middle School, where the sixth grader was a beloved student known for her bright personality and love of biking.
According to Montgomery County Police, the crash took place at approximately 3:13 p.m. on October 9 at the intersection of Bauer Drive and Russett Road. Investigators said a Montgomery County Public Schools bus was turning right onto Russett Road when it struck the child, who was riding in the same direction. Witnesses reported that the girl was wearing her helmet and appeared to be following traffic rules when the collision occurred.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene within minutes of the 911 call. Paramedics and firefighters made every effort to save the young girl’s life, but despite their quick response, she was pronounced dead at the scene near the rear wheels of the bus. The area was immediately cordoned off as investigators began documenting the scene and collecting witness statements.
Authorities confirmed that the bus driver, an adult with years of experience, was not injured in the accident. Several students were onboard the bus at the time but were unharmed. Officials said the driver has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation continues — a standard procedure in incidents of this nature. No charges have been filed at this time.
Crash reconstruction experts from the Montgomery County Police Department’s Traffic Division are working to determine the exact sequence of events that led to the tragedy. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing the bus’s onboard camera system to assess visibility, speed, and positioning at the time of the turn. Preliminary findings have not been released.
Montgomery County Public Schools issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss. “We are heartbroken by this tragic event and extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family and friends,” the statement read. “We are providing counseling and emotional support to students and staff affected by this tragedy.”
In the days following the incident, an outpouring of grief and love has swept through the community. Vigils have been organized near the intersection where the crash occurred, with classmates, teachers, and neighbors gathering to lay flowers, light candles, and share memories of the young girl whose life was cut short too soon.
A GoFundMe campaign has also been launched to support Summer’s family with funeral expenses and emotional recovery. Thousands of dollars have already been raised as messages of sympathy continue to pour in from across the region. Friends describe her as a kind, cheerful, and adventurous child who brought joy to everyone around her.
Local residents and parents are now calling for improved safety measures near schools and intersections heavily used by children biking or walking home. Many have urged the county to install clearer signage, lower speed limits, and enhance bike lane visibility to prevent future tragedies.
As investigators continue their work, the community remains united in grief and remembrance. The loss of 11-year-old Summer Lim has left an indelible mark on Rockville — a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for vigilance, compassion, and care on the roads that children travel every day.
