Nun, 80, struck and killed by PECO truck while crossing Northeast Philadelphia street
NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA - An 80-year-old woman has died after she was hit by a PECO truck in Northeast Philadelphia Thursday afternoon.
Police say the victim was crossing the street at Academy Road and Morrell Avenue around 2:30 p.m. when she was struck.
She was taken to Jefferson-Torresdale Hospital where she later died. The accident is under investigation.
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Archbishop Ryan High School has since identified the victim as Sister Frances Antoinette – a nun who taught theology at the school.
The school announced the tragic news in a Facebook post Thursday evening, calling her a "remarkable woman who dedicated her life to God, the community and the students of Archbishop Ryan."
Friday morning, Archbishop Nelson Pérez released a statement on Sister Frances Antoinette's passing:
"I was deeply saddened to learn that Sister Frances Antoinette, S.S.J. died in a tragic accident yesterday. In the name of the bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese, I express prayerful condolences to her fellow religious, the Archbishop Ryan High School community, and all those who mourn her passing. Sister Frances Antoinette was a faithful witness to Christ and His Church. She enriched the lives of many young people through her dedication to the mission of Catholic education for several decades. In addition, she touched the lives of thousands of people throughout our region by serving as the coordinator for Archbishop Ryan High School’s Community Service Corps. She inspired students to be faithful witnesses to Christ by serving as missionary disciples. This moment is one of deep sorrow. I ask all people of good will to join me praying for the soul of Sister Frances Antoinette, for the consolation and peace of her family, and for all those are suffering as a result of her death. May the Lord pour His mercy upon them and hold them in His loving embrace."
PECO released the following statement:
"Our heart goes out to the family, friends, students and community of Sister Frances Antoinette after yesterday's tragic incident involving one of our service vehicles. We will be launching a full investigation into the incident. Those closest to Sister Frances speak highly about her lifelong love of teaching and her kind, compassionate spirit. She was an inspiration to the students and community of Archbishop Ryan High School."
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