GILBERT, AZ — Hundreds in Gilbert gathered Wednesday to remember and mourn the passing of 15-year-old Lauren Hutchins.
The Gilbert High sophomore was hit and killed while riding her bike Tuesday night near Greenfield and Guadalupe roads.
“She giggled at everything. She was a super happy person and just enjoyed life,” said Riley Reynolds, who was a sophomore with Lauren at Gilbert High.
”She was always in a good mood. ‘Like hey, how are you doing? How was your day?’... Just a really nice person,” said classmate Mya Cedes-Miller.
Police say the 57-year-old driver was not under the influence or even speeding. Detectives are still investigating how the driver hit the girl before it was even dark.
Less than 24 hours after the tragedy, hundreds gathered in the family’s neighborhood. All of them were there to tie white ribbons to show the family they are loved just as Lauren was.
“I hope they feel loved, and I hope they know it’s for them and for Lauren,” said Reynolds.
Teachers and classmates are still struggling to cope with the sudden tragic loss. Amidst the ribbons were hugs and tears. “I thought it was just a little gathering, but I’m really happy to see so many people,” said Reynolds.
By the time the event wrapped up, there was not a single mailbox, door handle, tree, bush, branch, cactus, or pole untied. A silent message for Lauren, and her family every time they drive by.
The City of Gilbert told ABC15 they have a project scheduled for next year, near Greenfield and Elliot, to install a pedestrian crosswalk - but in light of the tragic accident, the city is looking at expediting the construction.
