The Frankfort, Illinois, community is mourning the death of Jenna Menias, a 6-year-old first-grade student at Grand Prairie Elementary School, who died after being struck by a school bus on September 8, 2026.
According to Frankfort police, officers responded shortly before 3:24 p.m. to the 500 block of Aberdeen Road following a collision involving a school bus and a juvenile pedestrian. Jenna was found unresponsive and suffering from serious injuries. Witnesses and first responders immediately performed CPR and other lifesaving measures before she was transported to a nearby hospital, where she was later pronounced dead.
Jenna’s death was confirmed by the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office. Frankfort School District 157-C also confirmed that she was a student at Grand Prairie Elementary and expressed condolences to her family and friends. The district made social workers, psychologists and other support personnel available to help students and staff cope with the loss.
Jenna’s mother, Yvette Menias, described her daughter as smart and loving. She said Jenna had a special bond with her three older siblings and enjoyed spending time with friends and family.
A later investigation reported by CBS News Chicago provided additional details about the circumstances of the crash, including that Jenna had been dropped off by a substitute bus driver and was struck moments after leaving the bus. The report said investigators considered the collision preventable and that the family subsequently filed a wrongful-death lawsuit against the school districts. Police and transportation officials have continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Jenna’s death has left her family, classmates, teachers and the wider Frankfort community grieving the loss of a young child whose life ended far too soon. A community prayer vigil was also organized following her death as residents gathered to remember Jenna and support her loved ones.
The family has asked for continued support and prayers as they mourn Jenna and make final arrangements. A fundraiser established for the Menias family says donations are intended to assist with funeral expenses and other unexpected costs following the tragedy.