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Parents of 9-year-old boy killed on the way to school say he was kind, loving

His older sister was biking with him. She was not hurt.

SARASOTA, Fla. — The parents of a 9-year-old Sarasota boy who died after being hit by a pickup truck while biking to school Monday morning say they are heartbroken over the loss of their son.

In a statement released Wednesday, the family described Roman Miller as an energetic and generous little boy who cared deeply about his family, friends and animals.

Miller was hit Monday morning at the intersection of Nodosa Drive and Webber Street in Sarasota Springs. A 25-year-old woman was driving.

"We would like to thank everyone at Brentwood Elementary and the community for their outpouring of support," the family statement said. "We also want to acknowledge the first responders, firefighters, paramedics, doctors and nurses who treated our son with respect and care."

Related: 9-year-old boy riding bike to school dies after being hit by truck in Sarasota County

A vigil for Miller will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday at Brentwood Elementary School in Sarasota. Attendees are encouraged to wear green.

"Roman loved going to school, and we are grateful to hold a service for his school and community," the family said.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been finalized.

"For those who contributed to the memorial along Webber, thank you," the family said. "We ask that you use caution when visiting the site. We are concerned for your safety and ask that you not stand in the middle of Webber Street."

The family thanked people who have contributed to the GoFundMe and Meal Train accounts. They say friends are hosting a fundraiser on June 2 at Big Top Brewery on Porter Way in Sarasota. Brentwood Elementary School will also be accepting donations on campus.

"We feel so blessed for everyone’s generosity and support," the family said. ".... We thank you for your continued good wishes and prayers and appreciate your respect for our privacy during this difficult time."

Previous: Boy’s death while biking to school prompts closer look at so-called '2-mile rule'

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