Eleven-year-old Michael Fortunato was returning home from the Jerusalem Avenue Pool with his sister and some friends at 9:15 p.m., July 2, when he was struck by a 1990 Chevy Blazer on Hempstead Turnpike.

Fortunato remained in extremely critical condition at the Nassau County Medical Center for several days before he died on July 6.

The Levittown Board of Education observed a moment of silence at their meeting on July 6 when they were informed of the Levittown student's death. Fortunato had just graduated from fifth grade at Abbey Lane School on June 24.

Dr. Herman Sirois, superintendent of the Levittown Schools stated this week, "The district is, of course, in mourning. The loss of a child is always one of the worst things that can happen in a school district because that's what our school district is about."

According to Nassau County Police Eighth Squad Detectives, "Michael Fortunato, age 11, was attempting to cross Hempstead Turnpike in a southbound direction at Jerusalem Avenue, when he was struck by a 1990 Chevy traveling westbound on Hempstead Turnpike." The vehicle was operated by a 19-year old Levittown resident, who was not charged. The vehicle was impounded for safety tests.

Fortunato sustained severe head injuries and was transported to the Nassau County Medical Center by the Levittown Fire Department.

Sirois, who has been in contact with the Fortunatos, noted that this is the hardest thing for any family to understand, adding, "The family is in our thoughts and prayers."