WASHINGTON, Nov 21, (Agencies): A tragic incident unfolded at Centennial Elementary School in Tucson, Arizona, where a 9-year-old girl lost her life after a large metal gate fell onto her, according to authorities. The fourth-grader was assisting in closing the gate on Friday when the incident occurred, prompting a swift response from the Pima County Sheriff's Department.

Responding to a distress call around 2:20 pm, authorities performed life-saving measures until Northwest Fire Department personnel arrived. Despite being transported to a local hospital, the young girl succumbed to her severe traumatic injuries.

Sheriff's detectives initiated an investigation, discovering that the metal gate had become disconnected from its support, leading to the tragic incident. The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under thorough examination.

The Flowing Wells Unified School District, which oversees Centennial Elementary, communicated the heartbreaking news of the student's death in a letter to families and students. Superintendent Dr. Kevin Stoltzfus expressed the community's devastation, announcing additional on-site counselors and supportive measures for Centennial students.

Stoltzfus conveyed, “We will share the news with Centennial students and will provide the opportunity for them to process this tragedy through art and writing.” The school is prepared to accommodate absences related to mourning, with counselors available to aid students in coping with the loss.

The superintendent concluded the letter by extending the district's condolences to the student's family and emphasizing the need for unity during this challenging time. As a symbol of collective grief, a makeshift memorial adorned with balloons, flowers, and stuffed animals began to take shape outside the school on Saturday.