Aunamarie M. Mahnken, a 12-year-old girl from Central Square, tragically passed away days after being struck by a vehicle in front of Central Square Middle School. The incident occurred last Monday, April 1, at approximately 2:44 p.m. on Route 11, according to New York State Police.
Aunamarie was crossing the street in front of the school when she was hit by a vehicle driven by Tyler Anthony Hanlon, 22, also of Central Square. Emergency responders rushed the young girl to Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, where she remained in critical condition for several days. Authorities confirmed she died from her injuries on Thursday, April 4, outlets reported.
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State troopers reported that Hanlon remained at the scene, fully cooperated with investigators, and is not expected to face any criminal charges in connection with the accident. The tragedy was witnessed by multiple students who were on their buses at the time of the crash, according to Central Square Central School District Superintendent Thomas J. Colabufo.
In a message to parents, he expressed deep sorrow over the incident and assured families that counseling services would be made available to students and staff affected by the loss. Aunamarie’s obituary paints a portrait of a vibrant and creative young girl whose spirit touched many in her community, told Spectrum News.
“Aunamarie’s vibrant smile and brave spirit have touched so many lives both far and wide,” the obituary reads. She was a young artist with a passion for creating, especially fond of painting gel nail sets. “She loved to make art, watch TikTok, and paint gel nail sets,” the obituary continued.
“She had a natural talent and began making press-on sets for others.” Aunamarie aspired to study cosmetology and hoped to one day become an esthetician. Her family described her as “colorful, spunky, and known to always be listening to music or dancing.”
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They added, “She was smart, she was creative, and she was beautiful inside and out.” In a final act of kindness, Aunamarie’s organs were donated to help others, a gesture that reflects her generous and compassionate nature.
Calling hours for Aunamarie will be held Thursday, April 11, from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Traub Funeral Home in Central Square. A special “sharing of memories” by her family is scheduled for 6 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to wear purple, Aunamarie’s favorite color, in her honor.
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