PERRY TOWNSHIP — Those who knew Kyson Beatty remember he brought joy to so many.
It has been a little more than four months since the 11-year-old died after being hit by a tow truck — and Kyson's school, Perry Meridian Sixth Grade Academy — is still carrying on his legacy.
The school has created a memorial for the boy in its library called "Kyson's FriEND Zone." and an online book drive in his honor. The drive will help the school buy emotional support books and provide self-confidence-building resources — something Kyson was big on.
Kyson was killed Dec. 11 last year by a hit-and-run drivernear the intersection of South Tibbs Avenue and Wicker Road.
PREVIOUS | Balloon release honors 11-year-old Kyson Beatty
"When this tragedy happened it was very evident the impact he had. All of the kids in the building literally and metaphorically looked up to him for a lot of different reasons. He was a leader in the building," said Assistant Principal Andrew Repay.
The school says it's going to continue his legacy of protecting his peers from bullies, and to stand up for the underdogs.
"Kyson was such a big guy on not only making friends, but also sticking up for any kids he felt like was in a bad situation," said Repay.
PREVIOUS | Court doc: Man who killed Kyson Beatty sped away, said he couldn't be caught driving the truck
Kyson always made it a point to make others smile, those who knew him said.
"Goofy, very goofy, very funny. He would make a joke or make people laugh in any situation. That was just kind of the kid that he was," said Amanda Tarter, Kyson's mom.
If you would like to donate to book drive, click here.
-
Brooks & Dunn to perform at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in 2025
The duo announced the Neon Moon Tour on Tuesday. The tour includes a stop at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on April 3, 2025.Pierce's fast start could help him fulfill potential Colts believe he possesses
Indianapolis Colts receiver Alec Pierce spent his first two NFL seasons showing promise. On Sunday, he took a big step toward living up to his potential.1 dead following northeast side crash
fatal car accident occurred on the northeast side of Indianapolis. The driver, who was unconscious at the scene, was transported to a hospital but did not survive.City votes to investigate Hogsett administration sexual misconduct allegations
Monday, the Indianapolis City-County Council approved Proposal 287, allowing a committee to investigate sexual misconduct allegations against a former staff member in Mayor Hogsett’s administration.