The Lambeth community is grieving the loss of 7-year-old Dante Adriano Caranci, who tragically passed away after being struck by a vehicle while getting off his school bus Monday afternoon. Described as a joyful and radiant child, Dante brought happiness to everyone around him, according to an obituary on the O’Neil Funeral Home website.

A proud member of the Lambeth Lancers Minor Hockey U9MD2 team, the hockey association shared its condolences on social media, urging supporters to place hockey sticks outside their doors in solidarity with Dante’s family. His school, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, has received an outpouring of support from the London District Catholic School Board community, though the board chose not to release an official statement out of respect for the family’s privacy.

On Monday, emergency crews responded to the collision near Longwoods Road and Murray Road in southwest London shortly after 4 p.m. Dante was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries and passed away the following day. London police confirmed all drivers remained at the scene and noted that the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are seeking dashcam or security footage from the area to aid in their investigation.

The tragedy has deeply impacted the local community, with messages of condolence pouring in. “Dante’s smile will be greatly missed in our classroom,” one teacher wrote. Constable Matt Dawson of the London Police expressed his sympathies, emphasizing the toll such incidents take on families, communities, and first responders.

Visitation for Dante will be held at O’Neil Funeral Home on Friday, Dec. 20, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. and 5:00–8:00 p.m., with visitors encouraged to wear hockey jerseys in his honor. A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday. An online fundraiser has been set up to support the Caranci family during this difficult time.