On Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at 7:37 a.m., the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to S. Division Street near Church Street in the Village of Hesperia for a car vs pedestrian crash.

According to the investigation, a Hesperia Schools Resource Deputy arrived on scene and learned that a van heading southbound disregarded a crossing guard and struck two children crossing the road. A 12-year-old boy and 6-year-old boy were both transported to Helen DeVos Childen’s Hospital in Grand Rapids. The 12-year-old boy was later released, and the 6-year-old is in stable condition. The 26-year-old female that was driving the van was not injured.

“Every child deserves to get to school and home safely,” said Jonathan Vanderwall, Hesperia School Resource Deputy. “By taking a few extra seconds to stop at crossings and staying attentive near schools, drivers can prevent serious accidents and save lives. Crosswalk safety is particularly important during busy morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up times, when traffic congestion and distractions are at their highest”.

The crash remains under investigation and will be forwarded to the Prosecutor’s Office when completed. The Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by Hesperia Fire Department, Life EMS and Newaygo County Central Dispatch.

_{Release courtesy of Newaygo County Sheriff's Office.}