Bus accident?

[BobC]

Local news is reporting a bus accident this morning in Hartford CT was carry a robotics team to an event (kickoff)? If any one has info please pass it on.

[Greg Needel]

This is horrible, Does anyone know what school it is?

http://www.wfsb.com/news/22192150/detail.html

[Elgin Clock]

Not exactly sure which team though.
Sad news. On behalf of myself, & my team 237 (http://www.thebluealliance.net/tbatv/team.php?team=237) I hope everyone is ok!

[Koko Ed]

This is horrible, Does anyone know what school it is?

http://www.wfsb.com/news/22192150/detail.html

I think it's a rookie team 3125.http://www.ghafirstrobotics.org/

[IndySam]

Prayers out to all involved.

[BobC]

Police said the bus was carrying students in grades 7 through 12 from Hartford Academy Of Mathematics And Science to a robotics competition. Radio is reporting some bad injuries.

[Koko Ed]

Aw man. They're listing one dead now.

[kc2pix]

That sounds horrible! And on what was supposed to be such an exiting day too! I wish them luck in their recovery.

[shocker4256]

I saw 1 dead, 17 injured.

[robodude03]

Wow, our thoughts are with the team...

-Team 399

[davidfv]

Prayers are with the team and family.

[Elgin Clock]

I know we have slightly different priorities on this day, (but this puts a lot into perspective when this happens to members of our ever-growing FIRST family) & I wonder if this news will reach the kickoff up in NH & possibly have an impromptu moment of silence during the broadcast for those affected.

Prayers to the friends, families, & those involved with the accident! :(

[SafetyGracie]

From both myself and team 1501, our thoughts and prayers are with those affected.

[BobC]

I know we have slightly different priorities on this day, (but this puts a lot into perspective when this happens to members of our ever-growing FIRST family) & I wonder if this news will reach the kickoff up in NH & possibly have an impromptu moment of silence during the broadcast for those affected.

Prayers to the friends, families, & those involved with the accident! :(
I have made a phone call and text message to people there. They may be able to get word on stage.

[Elgin Clock]

I have made a phone call and text message to people there. They may be able to get word on stage.

Yeah, it's flying all over Facebook & Twitter as well.

http://twitter.com/#search?q=%23omgkickoff

[Alexa Stott]

This is absolutely tragic. My heart goes out to all family and friends of those involved. Accidents like this always raise the question of why bad things happen to good people.

Once again, I extend my sympathy to all those involved and I send my wishes that everyone else will come out okay.

[Horsegirrl]

Our prayers and thoughts are with those on team 3125.

-1923

[MikePres]

This is horrible! My team and me send our sympathy to the people involved and hope for a full and fast recovery of all those who got injured!

Suddenly FIRST-day got a lot sadder...

[scottydoh]

Mine and 810's thoughts are with 3125

[Jessie2001]

:( Very sad story indeed. My prayers to team 3125 from team 2001

[blayde5]

Our hearts and prayers go to to those unfortunate people in the bus.

- Team 115

[alex1699]

i will pry for you all tonight. best of wishis and if the is anything i can do i will try my best to help.

[ICntIHaveRbtics]

Team 1058 extends their hearts and prayers from NH...

[Mr_I]

The thoughts and prayers of Team 811 go to the members and families of Team 3125

[trollin1st]

I was a volunteer at the Manchester NH kickoff and by the time the news was told to FIRST officials it was too late to tell the croud till afterwards. I do know that some mentors were heading down there to see if there was anything they could do. Thoughts and prayers to team 3125 and to their families

[sPod]

From all of us on REX 1727, our hearts and prayers go to the parents, families and members of team 3125.

[dcarswell]

From Team # 3359 our prayers go out to the families !

[DezNacario]

Thoughts and prayers to team 3125 from team 1334. If there's anything we can offer to make this difficult time easier, please let us know.

[dragonrulr288]

oh no... My heart and prayers as well as my teams go out to team 3125. I will be praying all day/night.

[bhsrobotics1671]

Thoughts and prayers from team 1671!

[chmconkling]

http://www.wfsb.com/news/22192150/detail.html

[SilentHAWK6]

My thoughts and prayers are with team 3125.

[murphymk]

This is a truly sad event. Team Beta will hold a moment of silence at tonight's Kickoff Dinner, and will hold the Pirates of the Pythagorean in our thoughts and hearts. Let us know if there is anything we can do.
(http://www.codyharris.org/PiratesOfThePythagorean/index.php)

[Vince lau]

Thoughts and prayers to the team and family

[Dancin103]

Thought's and prayer's go out from team 103 to 3125. We are deeply sorry for your loss and are praying for everyone else. If there is ANYTHING at all we can do, PLEASE let us know.

Cass

[RoseJ]

Aw, man. That's terrible. And on the day of the game release. :( On behalf of team 1322, we wish the best for team 3125.

[maltz1881]

Our hearts and prayers to everybody involved in this. This is heartbreaking to not only the family but the entire FIRST community. Team 1322 will keep 3125 in our prayers. If there is anything at all we can do to help not only the team but the families please let us know.

[rcmolloy]

This is extremely horrible. My thoughts go out as well to them.

[RobotGrrl]

http://team229robotics.com/site/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/FIRST-love.png

I hope everyone will be OK, best wishes to the members and their family.

[Raiderbots]

Team 2450 offers our prayers to the team.

[Kimmeh]

Team 2604 wishes to extend their thoughts and prayers to the families and members of Team 3125.

[OScubed]

Team 1511 also extends their deep felt sympathy to the families and mentors on the team.

[Dragon Princess]

Local news outlet are now reprting it was a student killed in the accident.

All of team 1991 offers our sincere condolences to 3125, and all feel very saddened by the tragedy of today. We would like offer any help and support to our fellow Hartford team in this time of difficulty.

[StephLee]

Team 1629 has team 3125 in its thoughts. This is a horrible event on any day, let alone the beginning of a season.

[ttakashima]

Team 2504's hearts and prayers go out to the parents, students and mentors of Team 3125.

[cicib99]

Our thoughts an prayers are with the ghamas team. 195 is here for any support if you need it.

[KelliV]

My thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of team 3125.

[chessking132]

From Team 75,

The team offers their deepest condolescenes to team 3125 and wishes the best to their family and friends.

[sami9145]

Best wishes and prayers for recovery from 2333.
This is a horrible event and I hope the rest of the team is okay.
The loss of anyone young is a tragic thing.
I know all of the FIRST community is willing to help this poor team in their time of need.

[WRENCHMOM]

We just returned from the Chicago kickoff and I was checking out Delphi and saw this. On behalf of all the members of team 1625, our thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you!:(

[TNT280Staff]

on behalf of myself, my family and Team 280, our deepest condolences are with 3125, they will be in our thoughts and prayers

[Sincrum]

This is horrible news. 1875 wishes a quick recovery to all involved.

[gravethief13]

Me and everyone on team 1528 wish team 3125 the best of luck and a quick recovery

[Rich Kressly]

Very sad news. Thoughts and prayers from 1712.

[JudyVandy]

Deepest sympathy from Chuck 84.

[wannabchicken]

very sad, myself and team 217 will pray for a quick recovery for all involved

[Barry Bonzack]

My thoughts and prayers are with the families and communities of those on that bus.

[Karibou]

I got hit with dozens of tweets and RT's about this during the broadcast. I almost started crying, because this is horrible. I didn't see the article on it until around 4 or so on a mentor's phone, and almost started crying again. My thoughts and prayers are with 3125.

[Pat Arnold]

Team 1557 & I send heartfelt condolences & prayers for courage & strength during this tragic time. Team 3125 is in our prayers.

[JoshD]

Awful news. :( My thoughts and prayers, and those of Team 975, are with all those involved.

[yodameister]

On behalf of 2791, we offer our sincerest condolences for all fo the families and hope for a speedy recovery. We will do anything we can to help.

[Pjohn1959]

Wow, what sad news. On behalf of team 1429, we send our heartfelt condolences out to team 3125, and a hope of a speedy recovery for those that were injured.

[smurfgirl]

My condolences to team 3125. I hope all are doing well.

[nnfuller]

Prayers are with all those affected. Maybe we need a moment of silence at every reginol?

[O'Sancheski]

My team was having a kickoff party and that's when we got the news. This is so bad, especially on this day. Team Paragon's hearts and prayers go out to this rookie team.

[Kevin Kolodziej]

Team 1675 offers their thoughts and prayers on this deeply saddening event. We wish the best for those involved and their families.

[wendells]

Team 2185 is sadden by this accident, our prayers are with the team.

[pomme damour]

Team 2489 extends our deepest sympathies, please let us know if there is anything we can do.

[nlknauss]

2729 passes our sincere thoughts and prayers to the team, families, and school district of Team 3125.

[cbudrecki]

I will personally ensure that team222 will have a moment of silence tomorrow during our brainstorming meeting.

[DNay247]

This is very sad to hear. Team 3125 is in our hearts and mimds.

[liljesse2014]

To Team 3125 "The Pirates of the Pythagorean", Team 228 "GUS" gives you our deepest condolences. R.I.P. Vikas Parikh

[Kims Robot]

Sadly... more info:
http://www.courant.com/news/connecticut/hc-school-bus-crash-i-84,0,4038282.story

Our hearts are with the Parikh family as this is a very difficult time. It looks as if many of the students acted very courageously.

[midway78224]

Im so sorry to hear this. My team's heart goes out to the team.

-2745 METRoboticS

[Jonanin]

This is extremely sad news, what a terrible thing to happen on what should have been such a fun day.

Team 1306 wishes team GHAMA best of luck and fast healing for those injured.

[kjolana1124]

Prayers go out of all of you on behalf of team 1124. One of our old members was on that bus, and thank god she was alright. Sadly we can't say the same for everyone. After the video our team contacted administration and we talked about it together. Still, no amount of hours of talking will erase what has happened. For those I knew well and those not at all, I hope everything is alright for your team both here in your darkest hour and in future endeavors. If you need anything at all, you have a community both online and locally who will do anything. All you need to do is ask.

[dqmot17]

My condolences to the team and families... I hope the team has a speedy recovery

[Raumiester2010]

My heart and the hearts of team 68 Truck Town Thunder go out the the team, friends, and family of team 3125. you will be in our prayers.

[laditek]

TEAM 564 Longwood HS Middle Island, NY sends deepest sympathy and hopes for a quick recovery from those who were injured.

[dsmoker]

Team 3125, family and friends, you are in our hearts and prayers tonight. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need anything at all during this trying time.

[Mark Holschuh]

Everyone on Team 2194 will be keeping the students, teachers and families of Team 3125 in our thoughts and prayers.

[Samheartsrobots]

From all of 1507, we send our deepest sympathies and lots of get well soons.

[DMetalKong]

Condolences from everyone in 303 to those involved.

[darkangel]

Thank you all for your sympathies. They will not go unappreciated. We are all in terrible shock. Save for the one student, we are all varying degrees of "okay," ranging from a few cuts and scratches to more serious, but not life-threatening injuries.

Yes, we were on our way to Kickoff in Farmington when we got run off the highway by another car.

The student was a junior, 16, and our team treasurer as of Monday. We have decided to dedicate our season to him.

R.I.P. Vikas Parikh. Your memory will not be forgotten.

[lingomaniac88]

I am very sorry to hear about your loss. It feels as if I have lost someone I knew very well. I sincerely hope you have a good season to dedicate to him.

[Mr. D]

Prayers and condolences to all of the families and team members.

Team 1708

[CodyHarris]

As Vikas Parikh's subteam leader on Team 3125, I would like to personally thank everyone for their wishes and prayers throughout the day's ordeal. Our school has entered a state of mourning for Vikas as the other 15 students involved recover from various injuries. At this time, all of us remaining are expected to make a full recovery, and most have already returned home, save one student with a punctured lung and our team's head mentor.

Students are being kept informed of their friends' locations and medical conditions, and will be meeting at the school tomorrow to share emotions and attend grief counseling. Our team has dedicated our Breakaway bot to Vikas, whose enthusiasm for the team will not be lost in this dedication.

Again, I thank you all for the wonderful support - our FRC community is tightly knit, and a horrible incident like this can disrupt the happiness on a nationwide scale. The cause is still under investigation, and students will be interviewed through the weekend. I will post more details as they become available from local authorities and the media.

[Dan 1038]

The students and mentors of 1038 are thinking of the students and families affected by this tragic event...

[Mr MOE]

This is terrible.

Thoughts, prayers, and sympathies from MOE 365 to 3125.

[CometGirl977]

Just now getting on CD and saw this...my thoughts and prayers as well as those of team 977 are with team 3125.

[SteveGPage]

This is absolutely heart breaking. Our thoughts and prayers are with Team 3125.

[Trent B]

Team 2502 sends their condolences to 3125.

[alicen]

From all of team 1379, we send our condolences and hope a swift recovery to all your members on 3125.

[Chris Fultz]

From Cyber Blue, our thoughts and prayers are with everyone impacted.

[EricS-Team180]

I just saw this on the 10PM news, here on the Treasure Coast. From Team SPAM, prayers and condolences to all on Team 3125.

[Mr. Pockets]

You will be in my prayers tonight. Wishing you all a safe recovery and peace of mind in this saddening time.

I was a volunteer at the Manchester NH kickoff and by the time the news was told to FIRST officials it was too late to tell the croud till afterwards.
Do you all think that it might be worth it to ask FIRST HQ to hold a memorial moment of silence at the opening ceremonies to the week one regional/districts this year. It sort of feels like that would be a tad late, but at the same time it really would be a fitting memorial. Thoughts?

[jmanela]

2834 has their prayers for 3125.

[hschase]

Condolences from myself and on behalf of Team 342 to 3125, and prayers for a quick recovery for all.

Please lean on your fellow teams if you need help this season, that is what we are all here for.

No Robot Left Behind.

[Emmaleebot]

Thank you guys for all of your support and condolences for our team. We are thankfull for all the support and how tight our FRC community is.

[Karibou]

Do you all think that it might be worth it to ask FIRST HQ to hold a memorial moment of silence at the opening ceremonies to the week one regional/districts this year. It sort of feels like that would be a tad late, but at the same time it really would be a fitting memorial. Thoughts?
I think that it would definitely be a fitting memorial, though why not at all of the regional/district events?

[Trying to Help]

The thoughts and prayers of Team 1729 go out to Team 3125 tonight and throughout this season. If we can help, let us know.

Trying to Help

[BrendanB]

On behalf of the team members and families of team 1519, our thoughts and prayers are with team 3125, their friends, and family members! You fellow FIRSTers are like family!:(

Brendan

[Mr. Pockets]

I think that it would definitely be a fitting memorial, though why not at all of the regional/district events?
No reason, I just figured it would be a good place to start. Who exactly would be the person/people to contact to arrange this sort of thing?

[trollin1st]

No reason, I just figured it would be a good place to start. Who exactly would be the person/people to contact to arrange this sort of thing?

My thoughts would be to contact the people running each event, it's the main sponsors responsibility to set up what is going on at each event from my understanding.

[Libby K]

My thoughts are with 3125 at this tragic time. All my love.

[Tetraman]

174 gives their prayers and hopes to all those involved.

[melissa079]

Team 51 sends their prayers to the family and team.

[Jamie Kalb]

Moment of silence from 3129.







R.I.P. Vikas Parikh

[BandChick]

As I've mentioned on Twitter, my and Team 1089's thoughts and prayers go out to your team, your friends, and your family in this time of sadness and need.

[z2daj]

moment of silence and condolences from Team Beta #2836, our thoughts are with you

[chmconkling]

our prayers go out to team 3125 and all those affected. It a terrible day for the whole FIRST family
sincerely Team 2028

[Jessica Stidham]

The thoughts and prayers of my family and I go out to all those affected by this tragic accident. I feel confident in saying that you are also in the thoughts and prayers of all those involved with team 45.

[BHS Bucs]

As you heal, know that like so many other teams, Team #2621 sends our thoughts and prayers your way.

[Joe G.]

The thoughts and prayers of my team and myself go out to you and your families.

May Vikas Rest in Piece, and may the rest of 3125 recover quickly.

[Jeremytice]

My thoughts and prayers go out to FRC 3125.

[redsx760]

Team 1468's thoughts and prayers as well as my own go out to team 3125.

[amk]

The thoughts and prayers of team 503, Frog Force, are with the team and with the family of Vikas; an unimaginable loss on the what should be the most exciting and inspirational day of the (FRC) year. Know that your extended FIRST family, many many thousands of us, are absolutely resolute in declaring our support, now and for the future.

[Uberbots]

Its been a sad day ... :(

Team 3125 is our sister team, and one of the students that was previously on our team, attends Avon High School, and is a good friend of ours was apparently in the accident. My prayers go out to all the families of team 3125 and to the bus driver who worked to avert an even worse situation.

I happened to know the aforementioned student on that bus, and she is also a good friend of my sister's.

Also, R.I.P. Vikas. fight on 3125!

[Ryan Albright]

My thoughts and prayers our to this team. So a tragic event

[1986titans]

The members of Team 1986 would also like to extend our thoughts and prayers to 3125.

[ralcony]

No reason, I just figured it would be a good place to start. Who exactly would be the person/people to contact to arrange this sort of thing?

My thoughts and prayers are with team 3125.

I am on the GSR planning committee. I will talk to the regional director on Monday about arranging a moment of silence at the GSR. I can also ask her to investigate getting the word out to the rest of the regional directors.

[kristin329]

The members of FRC team 329 would like to send our thoughts and prayers to team 3125 and their loved ones.


R.I.P. Vikas Parikh

[takeegan]

This is a terrible tragedy, you will be in my thoughts and prayers. I'm currently attending the university of hartford and any thing that i can do to help please do not hesitate to ask.

[cbudrecki]

My thoughts and prayers are with team 3125.

I am on the GSR planning committee. I will talk to the regional director on Monday about arranging a moment of silence at the GSR. I can also ask her to investigate getting the word out to the rest of the regional directors.

I must say, this is why I love CD. You just never know who is watching.;)


ps- I've added the story to Digg in an attempt to raise awareness of it... http://digg.com/d31FAdd

[RyanN]

I cannot express how deeply saddened I am about this. My heart and prayers go out the the families and friends of the victims involved in this accident.

I am really sorry this happened.

-Ryan Nazaretian

[BrentJ]

My condolences and thoughts are with all those familes and friends affected by this accident.

Brent Jones
New Zealand

[Phoenix Spud]

You will be in our thoughts and prayers in the upcoming days. As a fellow rookie team, we can't imagine how difficult this must be. If there is anything we can do from half away around the world, please don't hesitate to let us know.

Sincerely,
Thunder Down Under
Team 3132
Sydney, Australia

[Spiffizzle]

Mine as well... Thoughts and prayers, I wish only the best to all involved in these difficult times.

The whole FIRST community is here if you need them...

~ Zara Simpson

[Neat-Team]

Wow, horrible. Me and my group hope everyone will feel better. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected.

[TestEngr571]

Team Paragon extends our deepest condolences to the families of all those affected by this senseless tragedy, especially to the family of the Vikas Parikh, who lost his life as a result of the accident.

Our team had just finished watching the game animation and all of our minds were whirling with ideas and excitement when we recieved a call from one of our team members at kickoff in NH, they told us of the accident. We quickly pulled up local news coverage on the web and were instantly stunned at the images and the details posted.

Our team has members from a sister CREC school, the Metropolitan Learning Center, and has had previous student alumni attend GHAMAS, including my youngest son who is now in college in Nashua NH.

I am inspired to read the outpouring of emotion and prayers from the FIRST community. I am confident that Team #3125 will be on everyone's minds and in their hearts throughout this season.

As a rookie team, Team #3125 has a daunting task ahead of them, to mourn, to heal, and to build a robot to compete dedicated to the memory of their lost teammate.

Sincerely,

Dana Susca
Team Paragon
Electrical Team Leader
team-paragon.org

[Michele9]

Team 178 sends out condolences to Team 3125 and the entire GHAMAS community. Some of our team members did a robot demo and presentation to team 3125 in October to help their recruiting efforts. Other team members are currently or have been students at GHAMAS (it is a magnet school in Hartford that pulls students from all over the greater Hartford region). We are heartbroken that such an exciting day for a new rookie team has been marred by such tragedy.

You are in our thoughts and prayers, and we are just down the road if you need any help during the season.

[Ben_R_R]

My thoughts and prayers go out to team 3125, to the family and friends of Vikas Parikh especially.

[viperred396]

Team 2240 would like to express their condolences to team 3125, Family members involved, and any others who our effected.

Sincerly,
Bryan Fisher
Team Leader
Team 2240

[Mrtrom]

On behalf of Team 85, the parents, teachers, students, and mentors of Team 3125, you will be in our thoughts and prayers.

[Laurie Vertz]

All of us on team 269 are very sorry for your loss and our prayers will go out for the family of Vikas Parikh. We hope everyone else fully recovers soon.

[Big Kid]

On behalf of Team 816, we would like to extend our deepest regards to Team 3125, and the friends and family of Vikas.

Nicholas Acosta
Team 816 Captain

[Mr. Z 3219]

As the advisor for a rookie team that took a bus to our regional kick-off this news hit me hard. All the planning and hope that goes into getting an FRC team going, and the excitment of this day, just stops when you hear news like this. My thoughts and prayers, and I am sure those of my team members are with the students, families, staff, and community members that are a part of Team 3125. The FIRST family is behind you!

[Chuck Hurwitz]

Team 2877 NASA, PTC, BEC, Raytheon, Textron, Kenexa, Newton Public Schools would like to relay their thoughts and prayers to Team 3125 of Greater Hartford Academy.

[Martinez]

Jesus.

I was on Clarkson's team back in 2001 when a 15 passenger van rolled over killing 2 of our students and critically injurying several. I myself suffer from spinal damage and am in pain on a daily basis. I am shocked and horrified that this has happened again... and on Kickoff no less.

My prayers and thoughts go out to you. As some one who's been there, let me state that you will make it through this tradigy. Just have faith and patience. Now is the time to morn and to rely on the strength of your community. When you feel ready to pick yourselves off (and I know you will!), we will all rejoyce and see you at the competition.

/bows head for a moment of scilence.

[MarcD79]

As one who interacts with a lot of students at both the Suffield Shakedown & Hartford Regional, my condolences go to team 3125. I will make sure that they are not forgotten at the shakedown. I hope they make every effort to be at the shakedown to honor those injured & the student who died.

[JoeyPass]

On behalf of Team 2169, KING TeC, our thoughts and wishes go out to all the familys. We understand that some of the team members are seriously injured and we would like to set up a recovery fund to help those in need. We have a seperate bank account that could accomodate this so if anyone would like to contribute please email us your intentions at j.pass@prodigy.net.
We will start off with a $100 donation and will most likely do more.

[basicxman]

RIP to the teammate who has passed away and I wish a very speedy recovery to the teammates who made it through; not sure how bad their injuries are but maybe they'll make it to watching a regional :)

[rsegrest]

Team 3125,

We were deeply saddened to hear the news of this tragedy. Today it is difficult to see beyond the sorrow but we pray that your memories of your team mate and friend will bring you peace in the future.

With thoughts of peace and courage to your team, friends, and families

Team 2582

[canadiankid1029]

Team 2344 would like to give our condolences to team 3125 and the families of all the students involved in this horrific accident. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. If there is anything we can do to help you in these times, please let us know.

[thelittlesister]

Team 316 offers their condolences. There are no words to adequately express these feelings. May our thoughts and prayers bring a small comfort to you, your families, friends, and community as you search for courage and strength.

Grief is a never ending journey; you will find a way to help each other and the families involved. If there is anything Team 316, a part of the FIRST community, can do, please reach out.

[thelittlesister]

Team 316 offers their condolences. There are no words to adequately express these feelings. May our thoughts and prayers provide a comfort to you, your families, friends, and community as you search for courage and strength.

Grief is a never ending journey; you will find a way to help each other and the families involved. If there is anything Team 316, a part of the FIRST community, can do, please reach out.

[team476mom]

Team 476 would like to extend its deepest sympathy to Team 3125 for injuries sustained and loss of a team member yesterday. They were in a bus accident on the way to their kickoff. We are all thinking of you and you have brothers and sisters at Team 476 who will always remember.

[JaneYoung]

I remember when Andy Baker made this (http://www.chiefdelphi.com/forums/showpost.php?p=880022&postcount=19) post and I smiled for days.

In reading the news articles as they become available, I am very impressed by reports stating that team members that could, helped others and did the best you could, given the circumstances. Keep it up. We're here to support you in your efforts.

Thank you, Connecticut FIRST, for being a strong support for the team and the school.

My heart is with all of you,
Jane

[Katie_UPS]

Just extending the thoughts and prayers from 1675.

Also, you can find more information, if you'd like, here:

http://www.wfsb.com/news/22198611/detail.html
http://www.wfsb.com/news/22192150/detail.html (this article has been posted on page three as well).

Reading the articles can be hard emotionally, just so you know.

[O'Sancheski]

at all competition, at the end of opening ceremonies there should be a moment of silence for Vikas.

[vitasz]

Like everyone here on this forum, everyone on Team 2486 would like to extend their sincerest condolences to the members, family, and friends of everybody on Team 3125, especially to those who knew and loved Vikas Parikh. Even though we are on the other side of the country, we will have a plaque in the memory of Vikas at our pit at each of the competitions we will attend. We sincerely hope that other teams will also take that small bit of time to help memorialize and remember Vikas.

[Rion Atkinson]

NOTE: This entire post is all in my own opinion, not that of my teams. (Though some may agree.)

My prayers are extended to team 3125. May God watch over you in this time of need.

I'm currently sitting in my room trying to think of things that we as FIRST could do for this team, and all teams that lose family members. I'm not saying true family. I mean those that are on the team. The students, the mentors, the parents, the actual families. We can all sit around saying "We will be praying for you." As much as our prayers help, and much as the consulship of the the Lord really truly helps people. We are just people that this team may never see. We are nothing more than a name to a picture. Is there anyway that we can do more?

Can we get each and ever individual competitions to hold a moment of silence for those teams that lose someone during the build season? To give all the teams stickers to put on their robots to remind them what can really happen, to remind them how lucky they are? There must be something we can do, and someway to get it done.


-Rion

PS. Does anyone know the address to the team? Or even the address to Vikas Parikh's family? I would like to send them a letter.

[kjolana1124]

There must be something we can do, and someway to get it done.

Many teams and non-team members in CT are supporting work towards creating new laws to mandate seat belts on buses that go on highways. If there were seat belts, this tragedy would not have occurred. I feel a great way to start is by talking to people in our state government as well as your senators and representatives in Congress about these laws as well. The more voices, the better.

Other than that, the only thing I can see at this time is to make everyone aware of the situation and see what they can do to help.

Also, according to the FIRST official statement (which, naturally thanks to Murphy's Law is nowhere to be found at this moment), a moment of silence will be held during every regional in honor of Vikas.

[Rion Atkinson]

Also, according to the FIRST official statement (which, naturally thanks to Murphy's Law is nowhere to be found at this moment), a moment of silence will be held during every regional in honor of Vikas.

I am glad to hear this. :D It has calmed be quiet a bit. :D Thank you.

-Rion

[Red987]

On behalf of Team 987, we are praying for the best and give hope to the team that they all recover fully and that this experience make them stronger and more united.

R.I.P Vikas Parikh

Micheal E
Team 987

[Jared Russell]

Team 341 has all of the affected students and their families in our prayers. Know that you have 1800+ FIRST teams around the world who are ready, willing, and able to do anything we can to help.

In FIRST, just as in sports, we sometimes memorialize our friends by wearing a badge in their honor on our uniforms (or robots). For example, this year the Philadelphia Eagles wore a "JJ" patch on their helmets for coach Jim Johnson, who lost his battle with melanoma; likewise, last year at Championships several teams put "Dave Beck" stickers on their robots to honor the great head mentor from team 103.

If team 3125 and Vikas' family feels it would be appropriate, I would be most honored to put a decal in Vikas' honor on our 2010 machine. I know that many other teams would feel the same way.

RIP Vikas Parikh

[General786]

On the behalf of Team 178 from Farmington High School, I would like to offer condolences and prayers for the families of everyone who was involved in the accident, especially the family of the boy who passed away. RIP

[alindler]

On behalf of Team2170, Titanium Tomahawks, I would like to extend our sincere condolences to the FIRST family of Team 3125 and to all friends and family of Vikas Parikh. We would also be honored to participate in any memorial decisions by the FIRST community such as stickers on robots or moments of silence.

[Andy Baker]

May peace be found, somehow, by all who knew Vikas Parikh as they deal with this tragedy. My heart goes out to team 3125 as they suffer and deal with losing Vikas and dealing with the injuries of the team members.

Sincerely,
Andy Baker

[Team 1708 Dave]

On behalf of all the teams from the Pittsburgh Regional and the Regional planning Committee our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of this tragic accident.

Sincerely,
David J Dujmic
Chair: Team Development & Support

[Al Skierkiewicz]

Please know that we are praying for your speedy healing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.

[katiyeh07]

HARTFORD — - Teacher Richard Sams and his team of 16 students from the Greater Hartford Academy of Math and Science were excited as their school bus headed along I-84 toward a robotics competition Saturday about 8 a.m.

The Pirates of Pythagorean, as the team members dubbed themselves, were going to Farmington High School to watch a live feed from NASA describing a major robotics competition.

They had nearly reached the West Hartford line when they heard a loud thud.

"The driver couldn't regain control of the bus. We went over the guardrail and we were airborne. It happened just as quickly as that," said Sams, the team adviser.

"Kids were getting thrown all around the bus. I was thrown from one side to the other onto the floor," Sams said. He spoke from his East Haddam home Sunday, recovering from broken ribs, sprained ankles and the knee surgery he had earlier that day at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center.

• Leave your condolences in our guest book for Vikas Parikh
• Poll: Seat Belts On School Buses
• Pictures: Fatal School Bus Crash On I-84
• Video: Fatal Bus Crash Update

After the collision with a Volvo station wagon, the school bus plowed through the guardrail between exits 45 and 46 and plunged down an embankment, stopping 20 feet below, according to the police report. The students were sent to four area hospitals, according to the police report, which also said there had been a fatality.

Later Saturday, friends and families of the students identified the victim as Vikas Parikh, a promising student from Rocky Hill. Most of the other students were treated and released, although at least one remained hospitalized Sunday.

Students streamed Sunday to the close-knit magnet school for grief counseling and an impromptu memorial gathering to try to comprehend what had happened and to remember their friend. Meanwhile, at least one legislator — state Rep. Antonio Guerrera, D-Rocky Hill — vowed to introduce legislation in the coming legislative session that would require that seat belts be installed on school buses.

Police have identified the driver of the Volvo wagon as Christopher Toppi, 16, of 38 Balsam Landing in Glastonbury. Toppi was taken to Hartford Hospital and released Saturday. He could not be reached for comment Sunday.

Police were still investigating the accident, and no charges had been filed.

Adam Santos, a student on the robotics team, remained hospitalized at St. Francis on Sunday with fractured bones. He "felt a bunch of bumps and, all of sudden, went flying," his father, Arthur Santos, said Sunday afternoon. "He got thrown from one seat to three seats in front," said the father. "He was one of the lucky ones."

Classmates remembered Parikh as a confident, friendly student who was kind to others and had a bright future. The youngest of three, he attended Rocky Hill High School in the morning and left for the magnet school at midday for more intensive scientific instruction. The magnet school, which attracts students from 30 suburbs in the region, is one of four schools that make up the Learning Corridor near Trinity College.

Sams, the teacher on the bus, said Sunday he thought that seat belts would have helped minimize injuries in the crash.

"Obviously it would have helped to keep students from flying across the bus," Sams said.

Terry Schmitt, a member of the board of directors for the Capitol Region Education Council that runs the magnet school, called Sunday for a prompt review of transportation policies. Schmitt, also chairman of the West Hartford Board of Education, said the looming question is whether there is a need to require all school buses to be equipped with seat belts.

"It's not an easy question to answer, but those kids that were hurt got thrown all over the place," Schmitt said.

In addition to Parikh, Sams, Santos and Toppi, information was available on only the following people involved in Saturday's collision:

•Bus driver Paul Burns, 44, of Hartford, was treated at Hartford Hospital and released Saturday.

•Russell Weeks, 14, of Portland, was discharged Saturday from the University of Connecticut Medical Center.

•Inol Santana, 17, of Hartford, was released Sunday from St. Francis.

•Jack Giesselman, 18, of Canton, was released Saturday from Hartford Hospital.

•Sameer Laul, 16, of Rocky Hill, was released Saturday from Hartford Hospital.

•Cody Harris, 17, of Rocky Hill, was released Saturday from Hartford Hospital.

•Justin Rutty, 17, of Wethersfield, was released Saturday from St. Francis

[the_waterboy]

Prayers go out from myself and Team 1095 as well.

[Dick Linn]

My thoughts and sympathies go out to the Parikh family and the team members. Having lost my older son early in the 2005 season, I can't begin to express the shock and devastation of such a loss.

[Laurie Vertz]

The mailing address is:
Greater Hartford Academy of Mathematics and Science
FIRST Robotics Team
15 Vernon Street
Hartford, CT 06106

How about mailing cards of encouragement.

[Robert Cawthon]

On behalf of Team 1802, I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Team 3125. I realize that it is going to be difficult to accept your loss quickly. You may find it difficult to get back in the groove. If there is anything that our team can do, drop me an email and I will do my best to help. I am sure that every other TEAM in first is standing by waiting for some word as to how we can be of assistance. Just let us know. God Bless.

[Dick Linn]

Likewise, if I can be of assistance to the family or the team, please email me.

[Smoores]

They will be in our prayers

[Emmaleebot]

PS. Does anyone know the address to the team? Or even the address to Vikas Parikh's family? I would like to send them a letter.

The adress for the team is our school which has the adress of 15 Vernon Street Hartford CT 06106

[I am error]

On behalf team 686 (http://www.team686lhs.org) and I send are condolences to the family and friends of the dead student. We are deeply saddened to hear this and offer and assistance we can :(

[mcky9491]

Our condolences on behalf of Rosie Robotics Team #839. Anything we can do, just give a hollar.

[phil-1302]

This is the link from the FIRST forums to send condolences to the family through the funeral home.

http://www.funeralquestions.com/obits/carmon/memorial.asp?listing_id=147402&Action=Post


Team 1302 sends their Condolences to the family of Vikas Pratik Parikh :(

[Clourchn07]

This is truely sad when FIRST Lickoff day is tainted with something like this.
Our deepest empathy goes out to you, from team 316!!

[pgriswold]

Team 155 sends condolences to the family and friends Vikas and Pirates team 3125. If we can be of any assistance please contact us. We will be thinking of you throughout this season.

[NorviewsVeteran]

Team 1793 from Norfolk, Virginia offers their condolences to all those affected by the crash, directly or indirectly.

I will see if I can attach a black ribbon to our robot this year in Vikas' honor.

[Adam.garcia]

Wow, I just heard about this today at Robotics.

On behalf of the whole team 4, we wish this team a successful recovery.

[JohnBoucher]

An Update;

http://www.wfsb.com/news/22209394/detail.html

The driver of the bus was driving out of class. He had the license, but not for that vehicle weight.

[MishraArtificer]

COMPANY
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred moments so dear
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
How do you measure -- measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights, in cups of coffee?
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife
In five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
How do you measure a year in the life?
How about love? How about love? How about love?
Measure in love Seasons of love Seasons of love

JOANNE
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
Five hundred twenty-five thousand Journeys to plan
Five hundred twenty-five thousand six hundred minutes
How do you measure the life Of a woman or a man?

COLLINS
In truths that she learned, or in times that he cried?
In bridges he burned, or the way that she died?

ALL
It's time now - to sing out tho' the story never ends
Let's celebrate, remember a year in the life of friends
Remember the love, Remember the love, Remember the love
Measure in love

JOANNE
Oh, you’ve got to, got to remember the love
You know that love is a gift from up above
Share love, give love, spread love
Measure, measure your life in love

ALL
Seasons of love...
Seasons of love...
Marius
There's a grief that can't be spoken, there's a pain goes on and on. Empty chairs at empty tables…now my friends are dead and gone
Here they talked of revolution, here it was they lit the flame, here they sang about tomorrow, but tomorrow never came.
From the table in the corner, they could see a world reborn, and they rose with voices ringing, and I can hear them now!
The very words that they had sung became their last Communion on the lowly barricade…at dawn…
Oh my friends, my friends forgive me, that I live and you are gone. There's a grief that can't be spoken…there's a pain goes on and on.
Phantom faces at the window, phantom shadows on the floor, empty chairs at empty tables, where my friends will meet no more.
Oh my friends, my friends, don't ask me what your sacrifice was for! Empty chairs at empty tables, where my friends will sing no more...
The words have already been said, far more eloquently than I could ever say.

With sympathies,

Jeremy Marr
Alumni
Team 240 (TEMPEST Robotics)

[ketaki_shashank]

On behalf of Team 1124, I would like to offer our condolences to Team 3125. Speaking as someone who barely knew Vikas, it is hard enough to process this tragedy, I can't even come close to imagining the feelings of his family, friends, and teammates. If there is ANYTHING at all you need, just say the word. Stay strong Team 3125!

[juanfe92]

On behalf of CRyptonite Robotics, we would like to extend our condolences to Parikh family for their loss. Even though we did not have the honor of knowing Vikas, his loss is the loss of a friend and teammate. We wish your family the best in these sorrowful times and hold you and Vikas in our thoughts and prayers.

Sincerely,
CRyptonite Robotics Team 624

[calicogang]

On behalf of Team 701, The Robovikes, from Vanden High in Fairfield, Ca. we send out our condolences to Team 3125 and to the family of Vikas Parikh.
Mr. Parikh and team 3125 will be in our prayers.

[google]

I and Team 4 send our prayers.

This should be a reminder to everyone, FIRST is a family and while we are all competing against each other that is no reason for us to not be friends or even as close as family.

Please every be safe on your way to and from your shops (and in them too) and on the way and back from competition.

[Liu_yiang]

Team 1245 from Colorado sends their deepest regrets and wishes the best for all involved. We didn't get word of it out here, and the news shocked all of us.

Extremely sorry, and a swift recovery for everyone there.

[Shelbo]

My condolences go to all families and students involved. The FIRST family is always able to lend a helping hand.

[sundancekid92]

Team 56 sends our deepest condolences to Team 3125 and to the family and friends of Vikas Parikh. Best wishes and may you stay strong during the season.

[Cow Bell Solo]

This should be a reminder to everyone, FIRST is a family ...

This is very true. Today was the FIRST Lego League Iowa Championship event. And during the event we took a time for a moment of silence for this unfortunate event.

So on behalf of all of the Iowa Lego League we send our support too.

[HICCUPS]

Team 3125 was on their way to my high school, which was hosting this year's CT Kickoff. Before we turned on NASA for the broadcast, one of our team coaches held a moment for the team. After the broadcast and distribution of the K.O.P.s we held workshops. Members of Team 3125 who drove separately stayed at the school for the workshops and as members were released from the hospital they found their way to us. We made sure to keep the day moving along as planed and the members of our team, Team 178 The Enforcers, who knew the GHAMAS students stayed with the rookie team and supported them. I'm thankful that it was not anyone on my team in the accident, but it is a tragedy that it ever had to happen. My team and all FIRST members will keep Team 3125 in our hearts and minds this season and we wish the rookies a season that ends better than it started. FIRST is a family and they have all our support.