A first-grader was struck by a vehicle last Thursday near Prickly Pear Elementary School in East Helena, renewing concerns from parents and residents about pedestrian safety at the school's main crosswalk.

McKoy Beaty, who was biking home from school, was hit by a vehicle exiting the school parking lot. His mother described the incident as deeply frightening, and the family is now among those pushing for improvements to the crosswalk that would better protect students and families during school arrival and dismissal hours.

The crosswalk near Prickly Pear has apparently been a point of concern before, though this incident is bringing fresh urgency to calls for action. The combination of a busy school parking lot, young children on bikes and on foot, and vehicle traffic creates a hazard that advocates say requires a structural fix — not just a reminder to drive carefully.

East Helena city officials and the school district have not announced specific plans for crosswalk improvements as of this writing. Parents and community members interested in pushing for changes are encouraged to contact East Helena Public Schools or attend the next East Helena City Commission meeting.