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PLEASANT GROVE — Tuesday was supposed to be the day Michael Dominic Madsen, 12, celebrated with his class during a Christmas party.
Instead, the school and the community are mourning the loss of Michael who was hit and killed by a "construction-type" vehicle Monday night when the driver apparently didn't see the boy and turned into him while Michael was in a crosswalk, according to police.
"Our principal sent out an email this morning that donations are being taken at the school*," a woman posted on Facebook. "My heart is literally breaking for the family and friends and loved ones of this little boy. Today is the day that all the classrooms are holding their class Christmas parties, a day I’m sure he was looking forward to, and I’m so sad for his classmates and teachers as well."
About 6 p.m. Monday, Michael was crossing at the intersection of State Street and Pleasant Grove Boulevard, when a large truck making a right turn hit him. Michael had the right of way, according to investigators. Police are calling the incident a tragic accident.
While impairment is not suspected, Pleasant Grove police detectives were waiting Tuesday for toxicology tests to be completed before sending the case to the Utah County Attorney's Office to determine what, if any, charges should be filed.
At the intersection where Michael was hit, a makeshift memorial was growing throughout the day as police say the community has rallied behind the family. Tributes and messages of condolence also filled social media on Tuesday.
"One of my co-workers lost her son last night. This is an incredibly difficult time for the family especially with the holidays coming up," one woman wrote.
Michael was a sixth-grader at Mount Mahogany Elementary in Pleasant Grove. It was his first year at the school after his family recently moved into the area, said Alpine School District spokesman David Stephenson.
Stephenson said it was a "very somber morning" at the boy's school. The district's crisis team was there to talk to students who needed extra support, and some students with their parents took advantage of the service, Stephenson said.
The holiday season only compounds the tragedy, he said. Several classes were scheduled to hold Christmas parties on Tuesday. Wednesday is the last day of school before winter break, and the school was preparing for its annual sing-a-long where all of the students sang Christmas carols.
"That was part of the discussion at the faculty meeting this morning, how do we help the kids process this and allow them to grieve and at the same time prepare for the Christmas holiday break?"
On social media, family members have noted that Michael's parents have asked that donations be made through Venmo under Michael Dominic Madsen. A GoFundMe account set up for Michael that has received a number of donations was not verified, according to friends of the family.
According to police, Michael is survived by his mother, father and four siblings.
*Disclaimer: KSL.com does not assure that the monies deposited will be applied for the benefit of the persons named as beneficiaries. If you are considering a deposit or donation you should consult your own advisers and otherwise proceed at your own risk.
