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Brevard Public Schools inspects video boards after fatal accident at Riviera Elementary

District announces immediate inspections across all campuses as Palm Bay police investigate

School tragedy: A 5-year-old child died after a video board display fell at Riviera Elementary School in Palm Bay. (Riviera Elementary School)

BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — Brevard Public Schools is inspecting wall-mounted video display boards across all campuses after a student was killed when one fell at Riviera Elementary School.

Superintendent Dr. Mark Rendell announced the inspections Thursday in a message to families, saying the district is taking precautions while Palm Bay police investigate Wednesday’s incident.

The student was seriously injured when a large Promethean board fell from the wall, Rendell said. The child died despite emergency medical care.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Student dies after video display board falls at Riviera Elementary School

“We understand that this tragedy may raise questions and concerns among families and staff about similar equipment in our schools,” Rendell said.

According to the superintendent, Promethean boards throughout the district are installed by a licensed third-party vendor in accordance with manufacturer guidelines.

The district is conducting the inspections immediately while awaiting the investigation’s findings. Rendell’s statement did not identify the vendor or explain why the board fell.

Brevard Public Schools said it is cooperating fully with Palm Bay police and will provide additional information when it becomes available and appropriate to share.

“Our hearts are with the student’s family and loved ones, as well as the student’s classmates, teachers and the entire Riviera Elementary community as they navigate this devastating loss,” Rendell said.

Emergency responders were called to the school around 11:36 a.m. Wednesday. Staff members called 911 and began lifesaving measures before the child was taken to Holmes Regional Medical Center, according to the district’s initial statement.

School officials previously announced additional counseling and support services for students and staff.

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Brody Wooddell

Brody Wooddell, WFTV.com

Brody Wooddell is a digital journalist and media leader with more than a decade of experience in content strategy, audience growth, and digital storytelling across television and online news platforms.

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