HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — A video is sparking outrage among parents near Sinclair Elementary School in the Timbergrove area.

It shows a driver attempting to get around a crossing guard while children are in the crosswalk.

“There’s just been too many close calls, those kids that were in the video, that are in this pack right here, those are our kids in this neighborhood,” Leanne Searcey, who lives near that intersection, said.

Searcey and Michelle Collins have lived in the Timbergrove area for years and have to use the Ella and Grovewood crosswalk daily.

“I’ve seen many children almost get hit. I’ve watched children that are not my children almost get hit. I’ve almost been hit three times by cars,” Collins said.

They said safety is an ongoing challenge, which is why they are working with community leaders to hopefully see change.

“We’ve been exploring ideas of a raised crosswalk, blinking signs, even a stop light,” Collins said.

But as they wait for tangible transformation, they are grateful for people like Michael Phil, the school crossing guard.

“We’re also in this day and age where you’re afraid to do anything because you don’t know if that person has a weapon on them. So, the fact that Mr. Michael is doing things like that and literally putting his life in danger for the children, actually for the community– I’m getting emotional– for the community as well, like, it’s amazing,” Searcey said.

Mr. Michael said he’s also encountered close calls.

“It can be very dangerous sometimes. Sometimes people get comfortable speeding through here, and they don’t care at all. They go 50 mph. They look at me and keep right on going,” Phil said.

He tells ABC13 he would shield the car again, as safety is his top priority.

“I love children and I want to see every child be safe going home and coming to school,” Phil said.

Some are now calling Mr. Michael a hero, but he said otherwise.

“I wouldn’t say a hero, just a crossing guard,” Phil said.

People in the community said Timbergrove is part of TIRZ 12, so they are hopeful the crosswalk can be a part of the new developments to keep kids safe.

For news updates, follow Brianna Willis on Facebook, x and Instagram.

Copyright © 2025 KTRK-TV. All Rights Reserved.