Belmont Charter teacher struck and killed while crossing street in Center City: officials
PHILADELPHIA - A young Belmont Charter teacher was struck and killed by a driver on Wednesday morning while crossing the street. The victim, identified by police as 26-year-old Zoe Schemm, was pronounced dead at the scene, and police say the investigation is ongoing.
What we know:
Officers from the Philadelphia Police Department were called to the intersection of 19th an Lombard streets just before 7 a.m. for reports of a pedestrian hit by a vehicle.
Investigators believe 26-year-old Belmont Charter teacher Zoe Schemm was crossing the street, attempting to catch a bus, when she was struck by a vehicle heading westbound on Lombard Street. The driver remained at the scene of the crash, and Schemm was pronounced dead.
What they're saying:
Councilmember Jamie Gauthier said, "I'm heartbroken that a young Belmont Charter teacher lost her life after being struck by a vehicle this morning. This is another somber reminder of how important it is to make sure our streets are safe. My thoughts are with the victim's family, loved ones, and the Belmont Charter school community."
Jeff Glowik, Executive Director of City Teaching Alliance Pennsylvania, commented on Schemm's passing.
"The tragic passing of Zoe Schemm is felt by many right now, from the students she taught to the colleagues who worked beside her. She was a treasured member of both City Teaching Alliance and the Belmont school community. Our hearts are with her family and friends, as well as everyone who knew her."
What's next:
The Philadelphia Police Department’s Crash Investigation Division is handling the investigation, police said. No further details about the circumstances leading up to the crash have been released.
What we don't know:
The cause of the crash and whether any citations will be issued remain under investigation.
The Source: This article contains information from the Philadelphia Police Department and a statement from Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.