FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — The Fairfax County school community is mourning the death of a 13-year-old middle school student who was killed after being struck by a large truck while riding a bicycle in Fairfax City on Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

The tragic crash occurred as the student was traveling near the 3900 block of Pickett Road. The incident has prompted renewed concerns about traffic and pedestrian safety around schools throughout Fairfax County.

What Happened to the Fairfax County Student?

According to preliminary information released by police, officers responded shortly after 2:30 p.m. Wednesday to the 3900 block of Pickett Road following reports of a crash involving a juvenile and a large truck.

The 13-year-old student was riding a bicycle when the truck, which was reportedly leaving a shopping center, struck the child.

The student suffered life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police later located the vehicle of interest and its driver nearby. The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation.

FCPS Confirms Student’s Death

Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Michelle Reid confirmed that the victim was an FCPS middle school student.

The death came on a particularly difficult day for the school division. FCPS said three students were involved in separate incidents involving vehicles while riding bicycles or scooters on September 9. One of those incidents resulted in the student’s death.

Reid expressed sympathy for the student’s family, friends, classmates, teachers and the wider school community.

The student’s name and specific school have not been publicly released.

Community Raises Concerns About Student Safety

The fatal crash has intensified concerns about how students travel to and from Fairfax County schools, particularly amid ongoing discussions about pedestrian infrastructure and crossing-guard coverage.

The tragedy follows another recent incident involving an FCPS student. On September 1, a 16-year-old South Lakes High School student was struck by a vehicle while walking to school and suffered minor injuries.

The incidents have renewed calls for drivers and students alike to exercise greater caution around school areas, crosswalks, bicycle routes and busy intersections.

Investigation Continues

Fairfax City police are continuing to investigate the fatal Pickett Road collision, with assistance from the Fairfax County Police Department’s Crash Reconstruction Unit.

Authorities have not indicated that the crash was intentional. Additional details about the circumstances of the collision may be released as the investigation progresses.

At this time, no further personal information about the deceased student has been publicly confirmed.

Remembering the Student

For classmates, teachers and members of the Fairfax County school community, the death represents a painful loss at the beginning of the new academic year.

The focus now remains on supporting the student’s family and those who knew the child while investigators work to establish the full circumstances of the crash.

Details at a Glance

Disclaimer

The information in this report is based on publicly confirmed information available at the time of publication. The student’s name, school and additional personal details have not been publicly released. Circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation, and details may change as authorities release additional information. This article is intended for general informational purposes and does not replace official statements from law enforcement, Fairfax County Public Schools or the student’s family.