Community Demands Action After Tragic Death of High School Senior

A community advocacy event focusing on student safety near Arbor View High School.

News Summary

A high school senior in Las Vegas was tragically killed by a drunk driver while crossing the street, sparking outrage and demands for enhanced safety measures. McKenzie Scott’s death has prompted a community rally advocating for crossing guards and traffic lights to protect students. As parents and advocates push for immediate action, a petition has gained over 1,500 signatures. The local school district is pledging to address safety concerns, highlighting a collective responsibility to safeguard students in busy areas.

Las Vegas, NV – A high school senior lost her life due to a tragic incident involving a driver under the influence of alcohol. McKenzie Scott, a student at Arbor View High School, was hit and killed while crossing a street near the school, prompting community outrage and calls for enhanced safety measures.

The driver charged in connection with the fatal incident is 27-year-old Keenan Jackson. He is scheduled to appear in court on May 27, 2025. This incident has galvanized parents and community members to demand immediate changes to ensure the safety of students when crossing streets in the vicinity of the school.

As part of the response to this tragic event, a demonstration was organized outside Arbor View High School where parents and students rallied for improved safety measures. Many advocates are emphasizing the urgent need for crossing guards and traffic lights, which they believe will significantly enhance student safety. This initiative is being led by Krista Holloway, founder of Walk Safely LV, who argues for proactive measures to prevent future accidents.

In addition to their rally, community members created a petition on MoveOn, which has already gathered over 1,500 signatures from concerned residents who advocate for more crossing guards at key intersections near the school. This petition reflects the widespread sentiment that immediate action is required to protect students.

During the demonstration, protestors stood near a makeshift memorial for McKenzie Scott, which had been placed at the site of the accident. The emotional gathering turned tense when a vehicle nearly struck a student crossing the street, underscoring the real and present danger that students face daily. In response to the risks, Ashley Brewer, a parent whose son was previously injured by a vehicle, voluntarily acted as an impromptu crossing guard during the demonstration, highlighting the community’s commitment to student safety.

Parents are voicing their concerns and suggesting specific solutions to improve safety. Some are calling for the installation of pedestrian buttons that would enable students to activate traffic signals, ensuring they can cross streets safely. Other parents, including Nicole Davis, are advocating for stricter penalties for those caught driving under the influence. They note that comments from Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson support the call for increased sentencing for DUI offenders, suggesting that tougher measures could act as a deterrent to reckless driving.

The Clark County School District (CCSD) has responded to the community’s demands by emphasizing that traffic safety is a collective responsibility that involves collaboration between schools and local municipalities. CCSD has reassured the community of their commitment to working with city officials to address traffic safety concerns, particularly in busy areas surrounding schools.

In light of the tragic loss of McKenzie Scott, the movement advocating for enhanced safety measures continues to grow, with community members determined to prevent any further tragedies. As discussions about traffic safety gather momentum, it remains to be seen how local government and school officials will respond to the urgent call for improved protection for students as they navigate busy streets.