A boy died after being hit by a minibus near a school - leaving several students "extremely distressed".
Police and paramedics were called to Northfleet, Kent at roughly 8.25am today.
The boy, who police say is of secondary school age, had been walking when he was hit by a Mercedes Sprinter minibus.
He was taken to hospital where he later died from his serious injuries.
His next of kin has been informed and a file is being prepared for the coroner.
The collision happened close to a junction just metres from the entrance to Northfleet Technology College, which has said the victim was a pupil.
A letter from head teacher Jane Partridge told parents: "I'm sorry to inform you that one of our community died this morning after being hit by a vehicle on his way to school.
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"The incident is currently under investigation by the police so we are unable to comment further.
"A number of our students witnessed the incident, and the following events,
and are understandably extremely distressed.
"The school will be providing support if it is required for these students."
The road was closed in both directions while the air ambulance also attended.
A Kent Police spokesman said: "Officers are appealing for witnesses following a fatal collision involving a pedestrian in Northfleet.
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"Kent Police was called at around 8.25am on Wednesday 2 February 2022, to a collision in Vale Road, involving a white Mercedes Sprinter minibus.
"It took place close to the junction with Colyer Road and Park Avenue.
"Police and ambulance crews attended and a boy, of secondary school age, was taken to hospital, where he later died. The child's next of kin have been made aware."
Anyone who witnessed the crash, saw the child or vehicle in the moments leading up to it, or has dashcam footage, should contact police quoting reference 02-0167.
