PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. — The car used in a hit-and-run crash that killed a Palm Beach County teacher in Wellington early Monday morning has been located, deputies say.
Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said Toshimi Janiga, 62, was walking southbound at the west crosswalk of Aero Club Drive and South Club Drive in Wellington at around 5:40 a.m. when she was hit by a car turning northbound onto Aero Club Drive from South Club Drive.
As Janiga was knocked to the ground, the vehicle continued to drive and ran her over with its rear tire. She died at the scene, Palm Beach County Fire Rescue said.
The car did not remain at the scene but has since been located.
The was recovered for investigative purposes, PBSO said.
The School District of Palm Beach County sent WPTV the following message that Riviera Beach Preparatory and Achievement Academy Principal Mark Simmonds sent to parents and staff on Monday afternoon.
It is with deep sadness that I share the heartbreaking news of the unexpected passing of our beloved member of our staff, Mrs. Toshimi Abe-Janiga, this morning.
Mrs. Abe-Janiga was an extraordinary educator who touched the lives of countless students. She had a unique ability to make history come alive–turning complex subjects, like the Holocaust and World War II, into meaningful learning experiences. A dedicated reading coach and a beloved member of our school community, she was recognized as the 2022 Palm Beach County Teacher of the Year. Our hearts go out to her family during this difficult time.
Parents, this may be the first time your child is experiencing the death of someone they know or someone within their community. This can impact each child differently. I ask us all to be mindful and approach any conversation about this with compassion and somber respect. Grief counselors are available for our students and staff to ensure they have the emotional support they may need to help them through this difficult time.
For additional emotional support, students can dial 2-1-1 to reach the 211 Helpline for Palm Beach and Treasure Coast. 211 is a confidential, community, and crisis hotline service providing immediate guidance and support.
At Riviera Beach Prep, we are a family that celebrates our successes and grieves our losses together. As we mourn Mrs. Abe-Janiga, we remember her presence on this campus and keep her family, students, colleagues, and friends in our thoughts.
Please closely monitor your child’s behavior for any signs of distress. Do not hesitate to encourage them to come to the front office to see a counselor or find a trusted adult on campus to talk to.
Mark Simmonds
Principal
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