Emergency responders rushed to Rouse Hill Public School just before 4 PM yesterday after reports emerged of a tragic accident. Authorities were informed that a five-year-old girl, while riding her scooter along a footpath, was hit by a vehicle.

Paramedics provided immediate medical attention at the location before transporting her to Westmead Children’s Hospital, where her condition was critical.

Sadly, police announced early this morning that the young girl succumbed to her injuries.

Mirat Dizdar, the Department of Education secretary, described the incident as a profound tragedy affecting the entire school community.

“I witnessed the impact firsthand,” Dizdar remarked.

The 42-year-old driver is a father who was picking up his children.

He underwent mandatory testing and was released without charge.

“My heart goes out to the driver too,” one mother at the school said.

In a joint statement, Mark Speakman, Sarah Mitchell and Ray Williams from the NSW state opposition said the tragedy would “shake the community to its core”.

“Our hearts ache for the family and friends of the little girl who lost her life outside Rouse Hill Public School,” the statement said,

“We are thinking of her loved ones, her classmates and the teachers and parents who are mourning today.

“Our deepest thanks go to the paramedics, police and hospital staff who acted with courage and compassion in the most heartbreaking circumstances.

“We also want to thank the Department of Education staff who are supporting the school community through this difficult time.”