AMHERST — A University of Massachusetts student died after being struck by a car on Massachusetts Avenue on Tuesday night, according to the Northwestern district attorney’s office.
Elena Lucore, a 19-year-old freshman from Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, is identified as the victim of the accident, which occurred across from the former Robsham Visitors Center at about 9:15 p.m., said DA spokeswoman Laurie Loisel.
Lucore was with a friend when she was hit. She was taken by ambulance to Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, where she was pronounced dead. Her companion was not hurt, Loisel said.
The driver of the car was a 21-year-old UMass student who told police he was returning home from the library. He remained on the scene and was cooperative with police investigators. According to reports, it was raining at the time of the incident.
The accident remains under investigation by State Police assigned to the Northwestern district attorney’s office, investigators with the State Police Crime Scene Services Section and the State Police Collision Analysis and Reconstruction Section, and UMass police. The Office of the Chief Medical Officer will determine the cause of death.
“We extend our sincere condolences to Elena’s family and friends,” wrote Dean of Students Evelyn L. Ashley in a message to the campus community Wednesday morning.
“Police indicate that visibility was poor at the time due to weather conditions,” Ashley wrote. “Per their standard practice, police are continuing to review the matter.”
Ashley refers anyone who may need assistance to the Center for Counseling and Psychological Health, Employee Counseling and Consultation Office or the Dean of Students office.
“During this difficult time, I urge you to reach out for assistance, or to direct others as appropriate,” Ashley wrote.
Scott Merzbach can be reached at smerzbach@gazettenet.com.
