A primary school in Merseyside has closed for the day after a six-year-old boy collapsed and died in the town centre of St Helens. The child, who has not been publicly identified, was taken to hospital following the incident on Thursday but tragically passed away.
Emergency Response
Merseyside Police confirmed that emergency services were called to Parr Street at approximately 4:50 p.m. on Thursday, May 14, after reports that a young boy had collapsed. A passerby performed CPR until paramedics arrived at the scene. Despite efforts, the child was pronounced dead at the hospital. A post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death, and inquiries remain ongoing.
School Closure
Broad Oak Community Primary School, where the boy was a pupil, has shut its doors to students on Friday as a gesture of respect for the family and the wider school community. The headteacher made the difficult decision to close the school, acknowledging the profound grief felt by staff, pupils, and parents.
A spokesperson for St Helens Council expressed deep sadness over the loss, stating: “We are deeply saddened by the loss of a child at Broad Oak Primary School, and our thoughts are with the family and the wider school community. The headteacher has closed the school today out of respect for the family and the devastating grief they face, felt also by pupils and staff.”
Community Support
Local councillors for the Parr Ward, where the school is located, confirmed the closure via social media. Councillor Janet Rowlands, along with colleagues Mal Webster and Daniel Axeworthy, urged the public not to speculate on the circumstances while investigations are underway. In a statement, they said: “To add to my earlier post, please note that the senior management took the difficult decision to close Broad Oak Primary School as a sign of respect. Please let's not speculate until all the information is known.”
The family of the deceased child is receiving support from authorities. The incident has deeply shaken the local community, with many expressing condolences and offering support to those affected.
