Harmoney Harper, 8, had a promising start to the school year until a tragic incident rocked the neighborhood, leaving everyone inconsolable. Harmoney was struck by another school bus as she and her brother were waiting outside their house for their bus to arrive. Her life could not be saved despite receiving prompt medical care.
Cut Short from a Promising Start.
Like all other eight-year-olds, Harmoney Harper was eagerly anticipating the start of the new school year at Oaklawn Elementary in Wichita, Kansas. Her first day was full of eagerness for fresh encounters and limitless opportunities. Sadly, Harmoney’s promising start abruptly and heartbreakingly came to an end.
A terrible accident.
Harmoney and her brother were waiting outside their house for the school bus on the fateful morning of August 16. She was fatally hit by another school bus, which was an unimaginable turn of events. Harmoney was unable to be revived despite the efforts of emergency personnel and immediate CPR.
It is unclear how many students were on the bus when the accident happened, which happened around 7:20 in the morning. Although authorities have confirmed that no additional injuries were reported, Harmoney’s family and community have been profoundly affected by this incident.
An Account from a Heartbroken Father.
Father of Harmoney, Jasper Harper, described the heartbreaking series of incidents that resulted in the loss of his beloved daughter. He remembered how his wife was told to go outside by their son as soon as she heard him scream for his sister. The frantic cry of “I need you now,” roused Jasper. “Call 911, my daughter is gone,” were the heartbreaking words he overheard by the time he arrived at the front door. Harmoney was outside their house, where she ought to have felt safe, playing.
Support from the community during a time of mourning.
Harmoney’s mother’s sobs resounded in the neighborhood as the tragedy shocked everyone. With prayers and support, the neighborhood has come together in unity. One neighbor expressed profound sympathy for both the bus driver and Harmoney’s family, who must be experiencing unspeakable emotional turmoil.
No charges are expected to be filed in relation to the incident, according to law enforcement officials.
A United Community.
Harmoney’s family has started a GoFundMe fundraiser to assist with the funeral costs after being devastated by the loss. The description of the campaign calls for both monetary donations and kind words of support. According to the most recent count, 650 donations totaling $30,031 have been made to the campaign.
The Wichita community has shared its individual memories of Harmoney in the wake of this tragic incident. The principal of Oaklawn Elementary, Donna Osborn, remembers her fondly as a cheerful presence who was always willing to offer encouraging words and comforting hugs. Heather Bohaty, the district’s superintendent, expressed the district’s regret and commitment to bringing in more social workers to offer more assistance to faculty and staff.
The tragic loss of Harmoney Harper serves as a sobering reminder of how flimsy life can be and the enormous impact one young life can have on a whole community. Harmoney’s spirit will always be alive in the hearts of those who knew her as people express their sorrow and share their memories. During this heartbreaking time, our deepest sympathies and thoughts are with Harmoney’s family, friends, and the entire Wichita community.
