Tragic Death of High School Senior Sparks Safety Initiatives

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Community advocates for improved safety measures in school zones following a tragic accident.

News Summary

The death of 18-year-old high school senior McKenzie Scott, who was struck by a drunk driver while in a crosswalk, has prompted calls for increased safety measures in Las Vegas. Following the incident, the city is implementing a traffic study and safety enhancements, including new signage and pedestrian signals, to protect students. Community outrage has also led to an online petition for better school zone safety, while the driver faces charges including DUI resulting in death, highlighting the urgent need for legal reform and responsible driving.

Las Vegas – An 18-year-old high school senior, McKenzie Scott, was tragically killed on May 2, 2025, while crossing Buffalo Drive near Arbor View High School. Scott was in a marked crosswalk when she was struck by an alleged drunk driver, who has been identified as 37-year-old Keenan Jackson, reportedly speeding at the time of the incident.

In response to Scott’s death, the city of Las Vegas has initiated a traffic study and announced upcoming safety enhancements for the crosswalk. These improvements will include the installation of pedestrian-activated overhead flashers and neon green signage aimed at increasing the visibility of pedestrians in the area. The enhancements are expected to be completed by the time the new school year resumes on August 11, 2025.

Concerns regarding road safety around schools have been heightened following this tragic incident. Lt. Michael Campbell from the Clark County School District Police has emphasized the critical need for increased safety measures in school zones. Erin Breen, the director of UNLV’s Road Equity Alliance Project, remarked on the difference in culpability in pedestrian accidents, noting that while adults may often be at fault, child victims like Scott typically are not. Breen has called for drivers to adapt their driving habits and increase their awareness in areas where children are likely to cross streets, especially in school zones.

Currently, Nevada law establishes a speed limit of 15 mph in school zones, but this regulation is often criticized as inadequate in terms of protecting children walking to school. The community’s outrage over Scott’s death has amplified calls for enhanced safety measures in these vulnerable areas. Following the incident, an online petition advocating for improved safety measures around schools garnered over 1,400 signatures, demonstrating strong community support for change.

Keenan Jackson is now facing serious charges stemming from the incident, including DUI resulting in death and reckless driving. His blood alcohol content at the time of the accident was reportedly 0.286, which is more than three times the legal limit. District Attorney Steve Wolfson has pointed out that current penalties for DUI cases may be insufficient and is advocating for legislative reforms aimed at strengthening laws related to driving under the influence.

Jackson is currently being held on a $500,000 bond, with a preliminary hearing set for May 27, 2025. This case has spurred discussions about legal accountability and the importance of road safety in school zones. Several local leaders and community members are working together to push for more stringent laws and safety measures to prevent future tragedies.

In light of these developments, stakeholders in the Las Vegas area are calling for a collaborative approach to enhance safety for all pedestrians, particularly children. As the city prepares for the upcoming school year, residents hope that the planned safety measures will deter reckless driving and lead to a more secure environment for students walking to and from school. The tragic loss of McKenzie Scott serves as a reminder of the urgent need for a renewed focus on pedestrian safety and responsible driving practices in community spaces.