LINDALE, Texas (KLTV) - The Texas Rangers are conducting a formal investigation into the choking death of a child at Velma Penny Elementary School, the superintendent said.
Second grader Adrian Thompson died after choking at school last week, Superintendent Stan Surratt wrote in a letter to Lindale parents and the community at large. He said He met with Adrian’s father on Wednesday to provide the family with information and details related to the event he called heartbreaking.
Surratt explained that when Adrian began choking at school, lifesaving efforts were undertaken by the school nurse, including the Heimlich maneuver, use of a LifeVac device, and then CPR. EMS responders came to the scene after someone called 911, and they continued emergency care, taking her to the hospital. She was later taken to Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth.
“As we continue to process this tremendous loss, Adrian’s family, the teachers, the staff of Velma Penny Elementary, and the entire Lindale ISD community remains in mourning,” Surratt wrote.
He commended the efforts of staff members, teachers aides, the school nurse, and the first responders who all acted “swiftly and courageously” to save Adrian. He called Adrian a precious daughter, student and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, and said everyone’s hearts go out to her parents, Anna and Greg, as they grapple with a grief no parent should have to endure.
As far as the future of safety in the district, Surratt wrote that he wanted to reassure parents and community members that Lindale ISD has lifesaving devices, safety measures, and procedures in place to respond to medical emergencies. He said moving forward, Lindale ISD will seek an independent outside entity to review the district’s safety equipment, emergency response measure and procedures. He said the purpose is to identify both strengths and weaknesses where improvements should be made, and they will share that information with parents and community.
They also plan to develop a strategic plan to strengthen and expand emergency response training for all staff members.
“Adrian Thompson was a precious Lindale Eagle, and we will honor her memory by doing everything possible to make our schools even safer and stronger,” Surratt wrote.
Finally he asked the Lindale community to continue praying for the Thompson family, as well s the students, teachers and staff of the school. He said if anyone has questions or concerns to visit with him.
“By supporting one another and loving one another, the Lindale community can overcome even the most difficult times. That is how we will best honor Adrian’s memory, support her family, and caring for one another,” Surratt ended his statement with.
An official GoFundMe has been set up for Adrian’s family at this link.