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A routine school crossing turned into tragedy in Woodland Park, New Jersey, when an 80-year-old crossing guard was struck and killed while guiding two children safely across a busy intersection, authorities said. The crash unfolded in seconds, leaving a tight-knit community in shock and raising urgent questions as investigators work to determine what went wrong.

Deadly Moment at Busy Intersection

The victim, identified by the mayor’s office as Jean Schultz, was assisting two minors just after 3:30 p.m. on Monday at the intersection of Lackawanna and McBride avenues when a vehicle struck all three, according to the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office.

Schultz, 80, was rushed to Saint Joseph’s University Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead. The two children were also transported to the hospital and are currently in stable condition, prosecutors said.

Police confirmed the driver stayed at the scene. Authorities have not said whether any charges will be filed as the investigation continues.

Shockwaves Across the Neighborhood

The impact of the crash was heard blocks away.

"We were inside working. We heard a big boom, like a big thump,"

said Angelo Cilindrello, owner of nearby Angelo's Auto Repair.

For residents and workers in the area, the moment marked an immediate shift from ordinary afternoon traffic to emergency response and disbelief.

A Community Left Mourning a Familiar Face

Woodland Park Mayor Tracy Kallert described Schultz’s death as a devastating loss for the town.

"Jean Schultz was a dedicated crossing guard who took great pride in keeping our children safe each day. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones, and our crossing guard team as we mourn together. As this remains an active investigation, we are limited in what we can share at this time and ask for patience and respect for all involved,"

Kallert said.

On Tuesday, fellow crossing guard Franko Racanati returned to the same intersection, still processing what happened to his colleague.

"You know, we try to save the people, the kids, but it's very bad what happened,"

Racanati said.

Schultz lived in the same community she served daily, a presence neighbors say was deeply woven into school routines and neighborhood life.

"She loved the job. She loved it, and it cost her her life. But she was just a good person. I can't say enough about her,"

neighbor David Holster said.

Others described her as a constant, familiar figure at the crossing, someone families trusted without hesitation.

"She was a staple, a staple. It's so unfortunate. Eighty years old, and to have to go like that,"

resident Giuseppe Martucci added.

Investigation Ongoing as Questions Remain

Law enforcement officials say the investigation is active, and further details have not been released regarding potential charges or contributing factors in the crash.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Passaic County Prosecutor's Office at 1-877-370-PCPO, submit an anonymous tip online, or call the Woodland Park Police tip line at 973-345-8117.