Neighbours and classmates dropped off flowers, teddy bears and notes of sympathy Tuesday along a road where a six-year-old Edmonton boy was killed.

Jake Medicoff was walking with another young boy just after 4:30 p.m. Monday when he stepped off the traffic island near 73rd Avenue and 83rd Street to cross the street.

Jake Medicoff, 6, was a first grader at Holyrood Elementary School in Edmonton.
(CBC News)

He was hit by a 2004 Dodge Ram truck driven by a 37-year-old man. Medicoff was rushed to hospital, where he died a short time later.

Medicoff was in the first grade at Holyrood Elementary School, where grief counsellors spoke with stricken students and parents Tuesday.

"This is one of those incidents that strikes us as parents, more so than young children. We are in a position where we are better able to grasp the reality of the situation," said principal Rod Kostek. "It's one of the most horrific things that any parent could have to deal with."

A couple who lives next door to the Medicoff family brought food to their grieving neighbours.

"It's so sad and so hard for the parents and also for the two siblings," said Eva Osterwoldt. "They will miss their brother and their playmate."

Marilyn Knull said the incident was a tragedy for the Medicoff family and for the driver of the truck that hit Jake.

"My heart goes out to family of the boy and to the driver because he will never forget this for the rest of his life even though it's not his fault. It's just a really horrible situation and something he will live with for the rest of his life."

Police said Tuesday speed and alcohol were not considered factors in the collision. No charges have been laid.