Family heartbroken after 73-year-old grandmother Maria Rodriguez struck and killed by school bus in Queens
NEW YORK -- A beloved grandmother is dead after being struck by a school bus driver Friday morning in Queens.
The 73-year-old woman's family told CBS New York's Jennifer Bisram she had just dropped her grandkids off at school.
"She would take every kid that she could to school. She raised them like it was her own. She basically raised me, too," grandson Joel Rodriguez said.
The crash happened around 7:30 a.m. near the intersection of 86th Street and 107th Avenue in Ozone Park.
The victim's family showed up on the scene and broke down in tears, some even dropping to the ground in the middle of the street in disbelief.
They identified her as Maria Rodriguez, who lived in the Bronx but was spending time with her daughter and helping out the family -- adding she was the glue that held them all together.
"She was very lively. She was the happy person of the family. She would always gather everybody together. I don't know how we're gonna do it for this Thanksgiving," Joel Rodriguez said.
Investigators say Maria Rodriguez was not in the crosswalk at the time.
Police said the 47-year-old bus driver stayed on the scene and is being questioned by investigators.
"It's heartbreaking, and may she rest in peace," neighbor Angie Jagnarine said.
"When I reached here, I started crying. You don't expect things like that so early in the morning," neighbor Michelle Suarez said.
While it's unclear if speed played a role, residents who live in the area say it's a concern in the neighborhood.
"I'd like to see more done as far as speed bumps, stop signs and maybe traffic lights," neighbor Danny Alfonso said.
Now, Maria Rodriguez's loved ones are making funeral arrangements for the matriarch of their family.
"I'm gonna miss everything," Joel Rodriguez said.
CBS New York learned four children were on board the bus at the time, but they were unharmed.
The driver remains in custody. Charges are pending.
