RPS, community rallying around Mary Munford Elementary School principal

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- The Richmond community is reeling after Gregory Muzik, the beloved principal of Mary Munford Elementary School, was critically injured in a bicycle accident Tuesday afternoon.

A beloved figure in the community, Muzik, who has served as Mary Munford's principal for 32 years, was struck by a car near the school and is now fighting for his life.

At 4:38 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11, Richmond Police responded to the crash on Patterson Avenue where Muzik and a car were both traveling westbound. Investigators determined Muzik moved into the travel lane, and the car rear-ended him, throwing Muzik from his bike.

"I saw a big police presence on Patterson Ave when I was coming home,” said Patrick Adams, near west end resident.

Adams, whose three-year-old son attends speech class at Mary Munford every Friday, told 8News the incident has shocked the community.

"It's definitely hitting home. And, lots of people [are] keeping him in their thoughts and prayers,” Adams said.

Muzik has been a pillar in the RPS community. He has worked in the district for more than 50 years, making a significant impact on his students and everyone around him.

"Greg really embodies Mary Munford," said Matthew Percival, RPS first district representative.

“Whether that's a fundraising event or it’s a playground cleanup, he'll be the one out there spreading mulch with everybody else," said Percival.

Richmond Public Schools superintendent Jason Kamras said they are in close contact with Muzik's family and express gratitude to first responders for their quick actions. He added that a counseling team is available at Mary Munford Elementary to support those in need.

"Our prayers are with him that he makes a full recovery," Adams said.

Officials continue to investigate the crash. Anyone with information has been asked to call Richmond Police Department crash team investigator G. Drago at 804-646-1369.