Student, 6, dies after large video display fell at Riviera Elementary, district says

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. - A six-year-old student died Wednesday after a large video display board fell on the child at Riviera Elementary School in Palm Bay, according to Brevard Public Schools.

The incident happened shortly before noon, when the object and seriously injured the student, district officials said. School staff immediately began providing aid while first responders were on the way.

Student dies after video display board falls at Riviera Elementary School

What we know:

First responders continued lifesaving efforts after arriving at the school. The child was taken to Holmes Regional Medical Center, where the student died.

"On the surface, this appears to be a tragic accident," said Deputy Chief Nick Szczepanski of the Palm Bay Police Department. "However, our investigators from the Special Victim's Unit, Major Case Unit, and our crime scene personnel are actively investigating."

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to everybody involved with this tragic accident," Szczepanski added.

Brevard superintendent addresses student's death

Brevard Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell described the student's death as an "incredibly difficult day" for Riviera Elementary School and the district.

"We lost a life today, a precious young life," Rendell said. "And there are no words to describe that loss."

Rendell said he met with the child's family shortly after the incident.

"As parents, you never want to face this tragic situation," he said.

Rendell also thanked Palm Bay police, first responders and staff at Holmes Regional Medical Center for their efforts to save the child.

"All kinds of adults [were] doing everything they could to save this child's life," Rendell said.

Support planned for students and staff

Rendell said the district's immediate focus is providing support to the students, teachers, staff and family members affected by the child's death.

"There are going to be more difficult days moving forward," Rendell said.

What we don't know:

Officials have not shared the specific circumstances of how the video display board fell nor how the child was hurt. Officials said they would not be releasing additional information about the student, citing the family's privacy and the pending investigation.