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 driver near 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.
-
Fever beat Valkyries, wrap up homestand with third straight win
The Indiana Fever beat the Golden State Valkyries, 90-82, to win their third straight game to close out their homestand.
Rain can't keep thousands from turning up at Carb Day
Despite the overcast and rainy weather, thousands of fans came out to celebrate, and many seemed to be having the time of their lives.
Carmel’s Center for Performing Arts announces 2026-27 season
The Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel on Monday night announced its 2026-2027 concert lineup, featuring more than 70 performances and introducing two new programming series.
2nd fire in 5 days at Greentree Apartments displaces residents, IFD says
A large fire on Friday afternoon was the second in five days at Greentree Apartments, the Indianapolis Fire Department said in a social media post on Friday night.
