A boy is dead after being struck by a Metro Transit bus Wednesday morning, according to a statement from Brooklyn Park police.

Brooklyn Park police responded at 5:52 a.m. and said their initial investigation shows the boy was “standing in the highway” and was struck by the bus.

Metro Transit said the driver reported striking the boy in the northbound lane of County Road 81 just south of 71st Avenue in Brooklyn Park.

The boy was reportedly pronounced dead at 6:13 a.m.

More information on the deceased boy will be released by the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office. However, a law enforcement source tells 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS police had received a report of a missing child in the area, and according to the source, the two are believed to be connected.

Metro Transit said no passengers were on the bus at the time of the incident.

Officials say the driver will undergo drug and alcohol testing and will be placed on administrative leave during the investigation.

The Metro Transit Police Department crash reconstruction team is leading the investigation with help from the Minnesota State Patrol.

“This is an incredibly sad day at Metro Transit,” said General Manager Lesley Kandaras. “My heart goes out to the family of the child, our bus operator, and all those affected by this tragedy.”

ATU1005, the union representing the bus driver, released the following statement:

“The ATU1005 is deeply saddened by the tragic bus accident that happened today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and all those affected, and we will continue to strive for safer working conditions for the public and our members.”

David Stiggers President ATU1005