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Burlington community mourns crossing guard killed in crash
An emotional evening in Burlington County as a community came together to honor the life of a crossing guard killed on the job.
BURLINGTON, N.J. - An emotional evening in Burlington County as the community came together to mourn the tragic loss of a beloved crossing guard, who kept children safe until his final moments.
"He came out to help, protect and serve," a local pastor said. "Everyday he gave of himself, but on that last day, he gave himself."
Bruce Morlack, a 74-year-old father and grandfather, was fatally struck by a car while helping children cross the road earlier this month.
A car narrowly missed Morlack and the two children just moments before he was hit by another car and killed.
"Mr. Morlack is a true hero in every sense of the word," Chief of Police Ryan P. Elbertson said.
On Sunday, dozens gathered for a ceremony in his honor, playing harmonica and holding a moment of silence for the man who heroically saved children's lives while tragically losing his own.
"We are forever grateful to him for protecting our brother, and we will carry that gratitude with us always," said the family of one of those children.
The City of Burlington Public Schools says Morlack's legacy will live on through future safety enhancements and new infrastructure.
"Our school district is going to do whatever we can to ensure Bruce’s legacy will be that school zones and cross walks in Burlington city will be safer for all of our students and all of our crossing guards," Dr. James Flynn said.
Bruce Morlack will be laid to rest on Wednesday, and the investigation into his death remains ongoing.