Yuxi Wu, a Conservatory pianist student, was killed on Thursday while riding her scooter across Troost Avenue and 51st Street.
The master’s student was struck by a speeding red Ford Focus heading north around noon while crossing a crosswalk. Wu was pronounced dead at the hospital. According to KCPD, the driver was suspected to have been impaired and stayed on scene after the accident.
A witness, Doug Shafer, told the Kansas City Star that it seemed like the driver was passing other cars at 50 miles per hour and said when Wu was hit, her body flew.
The crosswalk has a flashing yellow light that was placed earlier this year but it does not have a stoplight. KCPD reported that this is the 71st traffic fatality of 2024 in KC, compared to this time last year’s report of 67.
Conservatory students were informed by email sent out at 2:36 p.m. today by Dean of the Conservatory Courtney Crappell.
“Our thoughts are with Yuxi’s family, fellow students and loved ones during this difficult time. I have been in contact with Yuxi’s parents and shared my heartfelt condolences,” said Crappell in the email. “The University will continue to work with the family throughout the process.”
Wu was in her first semester at UMKC pursuing a Master of Music degree in Piano and Performance.
“She was a wonderful and hardworking piano student with sensitive musicality,” said Wu’s piano Professor Sean Chen. “It is a great loss for all of us.”
Counselors will be available for student group therapy in the Grant Hall Conference Room from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Oct. 1. Individual grief counseling sessions will be available to students throughout Sept. 30 to Oct. 3 and students are not required to schedule in advance.
Individual Counseling Sessions:
- Monday: 9 a.m., 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.
- Tuesday: 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.
- Thursday: 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
More information about Counseling Services can be found here.
