Orlando Rivas, 52, of Buffalo Grove, a staff member at Buffalo Grove High School, died as a result of injuries sustained in a crash earlier this week. | Photo: Nick Rusin
A Buffalo Grove High School staffer has died due to the injuries he sustained during an accident near the high school parking lot earlier this week, authorities said.
Buffalo Grove Deputy Police Chief Brian Spolar said in a news release Friday evening that the Village of Buffalo Grove is “deeply saddened to share” that Orlando Rivas, 52, of Buffalo Grove, died as a result of injuries sustained in a one-vehicle crash at 3:20 p.m. on April 21.
Spolar said a dark-colored, four-door sedan was attempting to exit the Buffalo Grove High School parking lot in the 1100 block of West Dundee Road when it left the roadway and struck a pole.
After hitting the pole, the vehicle struck Rivas, leaving the Buffalo Grove man with life-threatening injuries, authorities said.
Orlando Rivas, 52, of Buffalo Grove, a staff member at Buffalo Grove High School, died as a result of injuries sustained in a crash earlier this week. | Photo: Nick Rusin
Buffalo Grove police officers were on the scene “immediately” and provided emergency medical aid before paramedics arrived, police officials said.
Rivas was transported from the scene to Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in critical condition.
The crash remains under investigation by the BGPD Traffic Unit, with assistance from the Major Crash Assistance Team, authorities said.
The driver has not been cited or arrested, Spolar said, and is fully cooperating with the investigation.
“Orlando Rivas represented the very best of our community,” Buffalo Grove Police Chief Brian Budds said. “His dedication to the safety and well-being of students and staff was evident every day, and his final act speaks volumes about his character. Our hearts are with his family, the students and staff of Buffalo Grove High School, and all those grieving this profound loss.”
Orlando Rivas, 52, of Buffalo Grove, a staff member at Buffalo Grove High School, died as a result of injuries sustained in a crash earlier this week. | Photo: Nick Rusin
Rivas is being remembered not only for his role as a security guard, but for the extraordinary care and compassion he brought to the BGHS community each day, officials said in the news release.
In his final moments, his actions reflected a deep commitment to protecting others, and his act of quiet heroism will not be forgotten, officials said.
Buffalo Grove High School Principal Jeff Wardle said Rivas was taking action to protect students near a crosswalk when he was left critically injured in the crash, calling it an “unimaginable moment.”
“Mr. Rivas quickly became a trusted and familiar presence at our school, known for making students, families, and visitors feel welcomed, valued, and safe,” said Principal Jeff Wardle. “His life was defined by service to others and a continued commitment to supporting and guiding young people. Life without him will be less bright.”
Orlando Rivas, 52, of Buffalo Grove, a staff member at Buffalo Grove High School, died as a result of injuries sustained in a crash earlier this week. | Photo: Nick Rusin
Spolar said the Village extends its deepest condolences to Mr. Rivas’ wife, Erin, their children, and all who knew and loved him. BGHS and the Buffalo Grove Police Department continue to have support resources available to students and staff as the community mourns together.
The principal expressed gratitude for the “immediate response and support” from the school resource officer, the Buffalo Grove police and fire departments, other staff members, first responders, and community members.
Support was made available at school on Wednesday, officials said. Additional support will be available for any student who wishes to speak with a member of Student Services or a trusted staff member.
Wardle said he encourages families to review the messages that have been sent out through the school as a way to navigate the “traumatic accident” that occurred.
“Out of respect for his family, who are navigating an unimaginable moment, I encourage families to monitor their child’s social media regarding images of the accident scene that have begun to circulate online,” the principal said.
Dundee Road was shut down for approximately three and a half hours following the incident.
