Traffic collision on Truman Pkwy claims life of SCCPSS teacher

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) - A traffic collision at Whitefield Ave and the Truman Pkwy has claimed the life of a Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS) teacher. According to CCPD and SCCPSS, Hesse K-8 School teacher Dr. Linda Davis was killed in a traffic accident during a suspect pursuit involving Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) agents. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson released the following statement on his Facebook page in reaction to Davis' death: "I extend my condolences to the family of Dr. Davis and the entire Heese K-8 community during this incredibly difficult time. We pray for comfort, strength, and peace to her loved ones, colleagues, and the many students whose lives this gifted and beloved educator touched. This is a time for compassion, care, and support for one another as our community grieves and as the facts surrounding this tragedy are carefully reviewed. We stand with Dr. Davis’ family and her Heese K-8 family, keeping them lifted in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time." Hesse K-8 Principal Alonna McMullen released the following statement: "I wanted to make our families aware that our school has experienced the death of a teacher, who was killed in a traffic accident this morning just outside the school. Dr. Linda Davis was a beloved member of our school family and her loss has affected us deeply. The students and staff will react in different ways to the death of one of our school community members. We all should expect and try to understand that there will be a variety of emotions and responses to what has occurred. The most important thing we can do is to be supportiveand encourage an open expression of feelings. At the school, we have implemented a plan for responding to this tragic event focused on helping our students and their families get back to regular learning and everyday activities as soon as possible. This plan has evolved from the district's experience with death in the past and the advice of mental health professionals from the community. Our teachers and counselors have been briefed on our plans and have received guidelines for discussing about death and reactions to it. There will be district counseling personnel available to students and staff who need special attention and support. We will try to maintain as normal a routine and structure as the situation allows, and we encourage you to do the same. If you feel that your child or family needs some assistance, please contact us, and we will do everything we can to help you. We are also providing the following resource that may support you in speaking with you child. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school at 912-395-6440. We know you will join us in our concern and sympathy for the family." This is an ongoing story. Stay with WSAV for all updates as new information is made available.