Statement from North Seattle College President Warren Brown on bus accident

From Warren Brown, North Seattle College President

Today, the North Seattle College community learned devastating news that four of our students were tragically killed in a vehicle accident on the Aurora Bridge. Additionally, several students remain in critical condition, and other students and a North employee sustained serious injuries.

Because the deceased were international students, government officials are working to contact next of kin.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families of these deceased students, as well as to the students and employee who sustained injuries. No words are adequate to express the absolute pain and sorrow we all feel as a result of receiving this devastating news.

Our immediate concern right now is to ensure that our students and employees receive the support they need. Because of that, we will have counselors, multilingual staff and faith-based professionals onsite for as long as is needed.

Many have reached out about how they can help during this difficult time. Today's accident has strained blood supplies, and Bloodworks Northwest has issued an urgent appeal for blood donations. Details on how to make an appointment to donate blood can be found here.

The entire North Seattle College community thanks the emergency first-responders and the local doctors, nurses and medical staff who have worked so hard to care for the injured. Campus leadership would also like to thank the many campus employees who volunteered to help our students today. 

Our hearts go out to every student, employee and individual involved in this tragic accident. It will be a long road to recovery for the campus, but we will move forward as we always have: together, as one community.