Child on e-skateboard killed on the way to school in Highlands Ranch

Vicente Arenas
·2 min read

HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. (KDVR) — A 13-year-old boy was on his way to school when tragedy struck on Wednesday morning.

Investigators say the child was riding a single-wheel electric skateboard when he was hit and killed. His family has identified him as Alex Mackiewicz.

It happened at Venneford Ranch Road and Highlands Ranch Parkway. The child’s picture is now surrounded by flowers, teddy bears and balloons at a memorial near the spot where his family said he was hit by a van.

In a GoFundMe post, Alex’s family said he was crossing the street on his way to Mountain Ridge Middle School when he was hit. Douglas County Sheriff’s investigators say there are cameras at the intersection, but they do not record.

Crews were working on those cameras Thursday, but it’s unclear why. FOX31 has sent a request asking for more information about the devices at the intersection.

Alex Mackiewicz's picture sits among candles, flowers, signs and trinkets
Alex Mackiewicz's picture sits among candles, flowers, signs and trinkets

Throughout the day on Thursday, Alex’s friends continued to pay their respects at a memorial growing under a tree next to a bus stop.

“He was a very funny kid, always respectful … very kind and giving,” friend and classmate Shawn Judd said.

Shawn laid a baseball next to pictures of his friend.

“Yesterday was going to be his first baseball practice,” Shawn said.

Shawn, who is also 13 years old, wrote a card to his friend — “letting him know we are all here for you and you’ll always be in our hearts,” he said.

“He was kind, nice and funny,” Elijah Storie said.

Alex’s family wrote that he was a kind caring soul. So many others agree.

“He seemed to care about everyone in the class,” former classmate Annabelle Lowery said.

FOX31 Newsletters: Sign up to get breaking news sent to your inbox

Alex’s family wrote that he was a light in the lives of so many — a light that is now gone way too soon. A vigil is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday.

The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said the incident is still under investigation. No one has been cited.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.