Photo: Lucas Todd in 2016 as the then 14-year-old eighth grade spelling bee winner.
Mountain Home Police say 17-year-old Lucas Todd of Mountain Home was killed Thursday morning in a pedestrian traffic accident.
Police Chief Carry Manuel says 911 was notified of the accident at 10:06.
Todd was reportedly crossing U.S. Highway 62 Southwest in the vicinity of Roberts Drive when the accident occurred.
During the attempt to cross the highway, a vehicle struck the teen, and then he was struck by a second vehicle.
Chief Manuel says the accident is still under investigation and the Arkansas State Police is assisting his department.
Mountain Home School District Superintendent Dr. Jake Long has issued a statement saying, “We are intensely saddened by the news of the death of one of our beloved students, junior, Lucas Todd. Lucas was such a bright light. He never let any challenge or difficulty stand in his way. Lucas consistently exceeded expectations and inspired all of us as well as his classmates. He was the true definition of a Bomber — he stood out for his good character, his perseverance, and for his kind nature.”
Dr. Long says, “Lucas was an excellent student, athlete and friend. Our hearts are broken, and we are extending our thoughts and prayers to Lucass family during this unimaginable tragedy.”
Long says the school’s counseling staff is available 24-7 to students, faculty, staff and community members during this time. The school-based mental health coordinator, Matt Sutton, is available by calling (870) 421-3154.
Earlier Long confirmed Todd has been a member of the high school’s cross country team and added the accident was not school related.
Todd was profiled in a KTLO, Classic Hits and The Boot news report in 2016 when he won the eighth grade spelling bee at Mountain Home Junior High School.
His father, Mike, said at the time his son’s special set of circumstances made the victory extraordinary, explaining Lucas was hearing impaired. Mike Todd said the school district has helped ease his son’s challenges with a special hearing system put to use early in his education.
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