Woodson Grad Dies After Being Hit By Bus

A W.T. Woodson High School graduate died Tuesday night when she was hit by a Harrisonburg bus.

WJLA reports that Jane Hwang, 18, was trying to cross a street when she was hit by the bus. She died at the scene.

Hwang had just started her freshman year at James Madison University. 

No charges have been filed against the bus driver, though the incident is still under investigation.

JMU students gathered on campus Wednesday night to remember Hwang. They hosted a vigil, sang and danced in her honor. Student-created hip hop group Visual Distortions Dance Crew performed in her memory.

"In a mere 30 hour period, you have united people and universities more so than many things ever could," said JMU student Katherine Rooney. "All of a sudden, it doesn't matter what our majors, school mascots, or social groups are... we may not know each other, go to the same school as each other, or ever meet each other, but campuses all around the state (and then some) are uniting to remember you. It's a beautiful thing."

A memorial Facebook page was set up for Hwang early Wednesday morning. Since then, about 2,700 people signed up to follow the page. Friends and peers posted hundreds of messages, support for Hwang's family and memories of their time with the Fairfax girl.

Here's a collection of what the Woodson community had to say about Hwang's death:

"To Jane's family and friends: I am so very sorry for your tragic loss. My condolences," said Woodson art teacher Jayne Matricardi-Burke. 

"The past nine years have been the kindest I have known, and I will try to continue the beauty that you had brought to the world," said Woodson student Susan Palfey.

"You have touched the world. The world was blessed with your beautiful smile that brightened the world. You touched people's hearts with your kindness and even the heavens have been touched," wrote Woodson grad Joanna Chung.

"My heart is just breaking over the loss of such a sweet girl. Jane was truly a bright spot in my English class all those years ago," said Katy Pabotoy. "Some students you just don't forget. I hope her family and all of her friends can find some bit of peace during this difficult time. Take care."

Did you know Jane? Share your memories and photos by posting them in the comments or emailing them to whitney@patch.com for publication.

Check back for more information as it becomes available.