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Hero Security Guard Dies Shielding Students
25 Apr
Summary
- Security guard Orlando Rivas died after a car crash incident.
- He was trying to shield students during school dismissal at Buffalo Grove High.
- A GoFundMe for his family has raised over $100,000.
Security guard Orlando Rivas, 52, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2026, after sustaining a traumatic brain injury. Rivas was seriously injured outside Buffalo Grove High School on Tuesday when a car leaving the parking lot caused a pole to fall, striking him.
His family states Rivas was trying to shield students during the school dismissal period. He underwent surgery to relieve brain swelling but remained in a coma until his passing. This selfless act has led many to consider him a hero.
Rivas was a devoted family man, providing for his wife, Erin, who stayed home with their four children, aged 4 to 30. He also had a connection to the Chicago White Sox, working in security and parking, and viewed his role at Buffalo Grove High as a retirement job.
The community and Buffalo Grove High School staff have expressed deep sorrow and respect for Rivas. A GoFundMe page set up to support his family has already raised over $100,000. Police have stated that no citations or charges have been filed.
