Two students taken to hospital after car strikes exterior of Catholic school in Joliet

Two students today were taken by ambulance to St. Joseph Medical Center after suffering non-life-threatening injuries when an SUV struck the northwest brick exterior of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic School in Joliet during the lunch hour. The impact jarred loose some ceiling tiles and concrete blocks in a basement lunchroom, where students were eating. The Joliet Police Department was also called to the scene.

Bishop Ronald Hicks and Vicar General Father Richard Smith immediately went to the school to assess the situation and support the students and staff.

“Today’s events remind us of just how precious life is,” Bishop Hicks said. “I thank God no one was seriously hurt, and I pray for the injured students and their families, as well as the driver. May peace surround our entire school community as we look to the Lord for healing.”

School was dismissed at 1:30 p.m. and will not be in session tomorrow.