FREETOWN, July 2, 2024 — In a poignant social media post, Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr expressed her heartfelt condolences following the tragic death of Elizabeth Mansaray, a promising student at Methodist Girls High School.
Elizabeth, affectionately known as Lizzie, passed away last week in a school bus accident.
“Alongside the Minister of Basic and Senior Secondary Education, Councillors, and staff of Freetown City Council, I joined the bereaved family, friends, the principal and teachers of Methodist Girls High School, and schoolmates of the late Elizabeth Mansaray to pay our final respects,” Mayor Aki-Sawyerr wrote.
Elizabeth, a Senior Secondary School 2 (SSS2) student, was set to celebrate her 17th birthday on July 4th.
“Lizzie was a brilliant, bright, and cheerful pure science student who touched the hearts of all who knew her. She will be sorely missed,” the mayor added.
Reflecting on the impact of her loss, Mayor Aki-Sawyerr offered her prayers and support to Elizabeth’s family and friends.
“In this most challenging moment of grief and extreme sorrow, I pray for God to continue to strengthen her parents, her extended family members, and her friends. May her gentle soul rest in peace and may light perpetual shine upon her.”
It was reported that upon arrival at the school’s bus stop, the bus driver allegedly opened the door of the bus before coming to a complete stop.
The pupil attempted to exit and fell to the ground. In a devastating sequence of events, the driver reversed the vehicle, resulting in the crushing the pupil to death.
The victim, described as her mother’s only child, succumbed to severe head injuries sustained in the accident.
The community continues to mourn the loss of a young life full of potential and promise.
