YISD “grief-stricken” over death of Hanks High School student killed at carnival

The Ysleta Independent School District is “grief-stricken” over the death of Hanks High School student Samantha Aguilar, who was thrown from a carnival ride and killed Friday.

In a statement to Abc-7, Spokeswoman Patricia Ayala said: “It is with deep sadness that we confirm that Samantha Aguilar, a Hanks High School athlete and outstanding student, was thrown from a ride during a carnival on Friday and passed away. The Ysleta Independent School District Board of Trustees, staff, and students are grief-stricken over the tragic loss of Samantha. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with her family and the Hanks High School community. “

Aguilar and another teen were thrown from the “Sizzler” ride at the St. Thomas Aquinas “Dia De Los Ninos” carnival Friday. Aguilar’s friend was treated for a bump on the head. Aguilar slammed into a metal barrier and was taken to Del Sol Medical Center where she died. El Paso Police tell Abc-7 they are still investigating the crash.

The District says grief counselors will be onsite at Hanks High School starting Monday to help students and staff as needed.