7-year-old boy collapses at Highland school, later dies

A 7-year-old boy collapsed at an elementary school in Highland and later died, authorities said Friday.

The boy was identified as Andrew Bienstock, and he attended Arroyo Verde Elementary School.

An emergency crew responded to a call about a child who was not breathing shortly after 1:25 p.m. Thursday. He died at a hospital.

“The autopsy has not yet been completed and the cause and manner of death is pending,” said Jodi Miller, public information officer for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

The Redlands Unified School District issued a statement Friday from Assistant Supt. Brad Mason that was published by the Redlands Daily Facts: “The district is saddened by the loss of one of our Arroyo Verde students yesterday afternoon. The district is providing counseling support at the school site and in the student’s class. Our heart goes out to the student’s family and friends.”

A message posted on the school’s home page alerted parents that “the Arroyo Verde Elementary School community is saddened by the tragic loss of one of our students.” It provided a contact number for counseling services.

Twitter: @howardblume