Police identify Belmont Charter School teacher struck by car and killed crossing the street

The Belmont Charter Network is grieving the loss of an elementary school teacher who was struck by a car and killed while crossing the street Wednesday morning in Center City, Philadelphia.

Authorities identified the pedestrian as 26-year-old Zoe Schemm. The crash occurred just before 6:45 a.m. at 19th and Lombard streets.

Belmont Charter Elementary and Middle Schools were closed Thursday to allow the community to grieve.

"She was a valued teacher who cared deeply for her students and made a lasting impact during her time at Belmont. Her loss is being felt deeply across our community," the network said in a statement.

Grief support has been made available to all staff and students, and flowers were placed at the intersection of 19th and Lombard streets in her memory.

According to police, a white 2023 Audi A4 was traveling west on Lombard Street when it hit Schemm, who was crossing the road to catch a bus. Schemm became trapped under the vehicle, sustained severe injuries and died at the scene.

Investigators noted that Schemm did not have the right-of-way, and police believe the incident was an accident. The driver remained at the scene. Investigators planned to review surveillance footage from a nearby SEPTA bus, and the Philadelphia Police Department's Crash Investigation Division continues to look into the crash.

In a social media post, Councilmember Jamie Gauthier expressed heartbreak over the teacher's death, emphasizing that "we must make sure our streets are safe."

Resident Debbie Maser reflected on the tragedy, saying: "When my daughter started driving, I told her it's just scary because people come out of everywhere, and you just don't know.

"It's such a huge responsibility, and it wasn't his fault. And it's heart-wrenching for everyone."