A beloved New Jersey crossing guard was struck and killed by a car after selflessly pushing two children out of harm’s way, according to witnesses and local authorities.
Crossing guard Jean Schultz, 80, was helping two children cross the street in Woodland Park when a vehicle suddenly struck them just after 3:30 p.m. on Monday, according to the Passaic County Prosecutors’ Office and Mayor Tracy Kallert.
Schultz was taken to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead, prosecutors said.
The two children — a student from the Woodland Park School District and their sibling — were taken to the hospital in stable condition, authorities added.
Witnesses told WABC that the long-time crossing guard heroically pushed the two children out of the way, attempting to save them from the oncoming vehicle’s impact.
“She literally put herself in harm’s way to protect the kids,” resident Marino Florio told the outlet.
The Woodland Park School District described Schultz as a “dedicated” crossing guard who played an “integral role” in ushering students safely across the street, always with a smile on her face.
“This loss is and will continue to be deeply felt across our entire educational community and the community at large,” the district said in a statement.
“She has served this community always with a smile on her face and care in her soul. Her commitment and genuine love of her service to the community will always be remembered,” the district said.
Other residents remembered Schultz as a dear friend who endlessly gave back to her community in times of need.
“I’m 85, and I don’t wanna even be alive anymore, she was my best friend in the world… I helped her out, she helped me out,” Dave Holster told WABC.
“She brought me food. I cut her grass, I cleaned up her leaves. She did so much for me. We went for breakfast every Thursday morning,” Holster said.
The driver remained on scene after the accident. An investigation into the incident remains ongoing, officials said.
“For many years, Jean served our community with care, warmth, and unwavering dedication. She was more than a crossing guard—she was a bright and reassuring presence for generations of children and families,” Mayor Kallert said in a statement.
“Her compassion, warmth, and genuine love for the children of Woodland Park left a lasting impact that will never be forgotten. This loss is deeply felt throughout our entire community, especially by the families and students who were fortunate to see her each day.”