A devastating accident outside a Texas school has left a preschool teacher dead and multiple others injured.

Alexia Rosales died in the tragedy. Credit: Facebook

The tragedy unfolded at approximately 4:00PM on Thursday (December 19), as families gathered to pick up children from Excelled Montessori Plus in Bexar County following a holiday performance at the preschool and daycare.

Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar described the heartbreaking series of events during a news conference earlier this week. According to Salazar, a parent had just loaded her children into her vehicle when “for whatever reason, [she] accelerated into the building, into another car”.

The impact of the crash set off a chain reaction. “She, in turn, pushed that other car, and then both cars ended up hitting a fence where on the other side of that fence, several children were playing, and one faculty member was there with the children as well,” Salazar said, per PEOPLE.

The collision tragically resulted in the death of 22-year-old Alexia Rosales, a beloved teacher at the preschool. Rosales was pinned under one of the vehicles “for some time” and, despite efforts by emergency responders, died at the scene.

“Fire was able to get out here, and they were able to lift that vehicle using a hydraulic lift,” Salazar said. However, it was too late to save Rosales.

Several Children and Staff Injured

At least five children were transported to local hospitals for medical care, with varying conditions. Another teacher was also hospitalized, according to reports from KENS 5 and KEYE-TV. Three of the injured children were treated and released later that day, while additional patients refused transport or were treated at the scene, as confirmed by Bexar County Emergency Services District 4 Fire & Rescue.

The driver of the vehicle that initiated the crash was unharmed. Sheriff Salazar noted that while the driver has a past medical history that may have played a role, there is no evidence of intoxication or criminal intent. “At this point, it appears to be just a very tragic accident,” Salazar said.

The school has paid tribute to the beloved teacher. Credit: Facebook/excelledmontessori

Excelled Montessori Plus released a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of Rosales, whom they described as a “bright light” in their community.

“Her smile, laughter, and boundless love for the children and everyone around her made our school feel like a second home,” the statement read. “Her impact on our community is immeasurable, and her absence leaves a hole in our hearts. As we grieve, we want to come together to support her family in this incredibly difficult time.”

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched by the school to support Rosales’ family during this difficult time. As of this writing, more than $43,000 has been raised.

“We’re coming together to support her family during this incredibly difficult time. Your donations will help with funeral costs and give her loved ones one less thing to worry about as they grieve,” the donation page reads.

“If Alexia ever touched your life, or even if you simply want to show your support, we would deeply appreciate anything you can give. Let’s honor Alexia’s memory by coming together as a community, just as she always would have.”

The tragedy has left the local community reeling. As families and staff process the heartbreaking events, the school has asked for prayers and support for all those affected. Sheriff Salazar summed up the sentiment shared by many, calling the accident “a very tragic situation for all involved.”

The investigation into the crash continues.

An update from the school shared on Facebook states: “To everyone who has reached out or offered support—thank you. You’ve shown just how much Alexia was loved, and your care is helping her family and all of us through this heartbreaking time.

“Alexia’s light continues to shine in the love we’ve seen from all of you. We’re grateful beyond words.”

Our thoughts go out to Rosales’ loved ones and everyone else impacted by this tragedy.