Parent Dies After Being Found Unresponsive During Elementary School Pick-Up

Mar. 15, 2025

Photo:Google Maps

Google Maps

A parent died after being found unresponsive outside an elementary school in Iowa during afternoon pick-up, authorities said.

Two volunteer members of the town’s fire department, who were also in line to pick up children at the school, quickly responded, according to the outlets. The first responders attempted life-saving measures, but were unable to save the parent.

A representative with Southeast Polk Community School District confirmed the parent’s death in an email to PEOPLE.

“We are aware of the medical emergency that occurred at Mitchellville Elementary during dismissal on Tuesday,” Jeannie Christenson, community relations coordinator, said. “Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we are unable to provide further details or confirm any personal information.”

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In a message on Facebook, the Mitchellville Police Department, which did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for additional comment, thanked those on hand for their help in trying to help the victim.

“Too many times we forget our volunteer firefighters and medics,” the department wrote. “We take for granted they will be there. We don’t realize the thousands of hours they dedicate to the community every year.”

Grief counselors as well as the police department’s therapy dogs were on hand at the school on Wednesday, according to KCCI.

Mitchellville is located about 20 miles outside of Des Moines.

source: people.com