Red House , Putnam County , West Virginia

Police and witnesses are calling it an unavoidable accident that in the blink of an eye took the life of 8-year old Dale Danberry.

It happened Wednesday night in front of Dale's home on Route 34 on Red House Hill. Police say Dale was just being a typical kid, and wanted to cross the road to get to his friend's house.

"His older brother said wait until I get shoes on and I'll walk across with you," said Sheriff Mark Smith of the Putnam County Sheriff's Office.

But Dale didn't wait. He darted across the busy stretch of road and didn't see an SUV headed straight toward him.

Chris Saunders is a neighbor and county school bus driver. He saw Dale seconds before he died and says he's afraid his bus is one of the reasons Dale didn't make it across.

"My vehicle was blocking the view of both him and the car both. They couldn't see each other until they both got past me," said Chris Saunders.

Witnesses say Dale was unconscious after he was hit. He was rushed to the hospital, but it was too late. Dale died at just 8-years old.

At George Washington Elementary, Dale's classmates are saying their own goodbyes to their friend. Many saying they will miss his smile and his friendship. And his neighbors are setting up a memorial to honor his life. A life taken far too soon.

"You know, he's about the same age as my little boy. It's just a numb feeling," said Saunders.

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