A balloon with the name “Angel” floated above a sidewalk memorial that grew in El Cajon Friday.
It's on Peach Avenue, where 7-year-old second grader Angel Cruz was hit by a car Thursday afternoon. Early Friday morning, Angel died from a traumatic brain injury, the medical examiner's office says.
“It’s horrifying,” said resident Christine Gram. “I’m just saddened by this whole situation.”
The entire community, including the boy's school, are now dealing with the loss. Crisis counselors were sent to Naranca Elementary School. The school district superintendent said he met with teachers and staff.
“I shared the tragic news, prepared for the day emotionally and are doing everything we can to prove as much normalcy for the kids as we communicate and go through various steps of grief,” said David Miyashiro, Superintendent of the Cajon Valley Union School District.
Back at the family apartment complex, a steady stream of family and friends walked up to the family home to offer condolences. Among them was the owner of the building, who says the family has lived there for the past eight years.
Right now, El Cajon police are investigating the accident, but right now have not filed any charges against the 18-year old driver, another resident of the neighborhood, who hit the boy.
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“Preliminary evidence from the scene, as well as witness statements, indicate that speed and alcohol were not a factor in the collision,” said Lt. Randy Soulard with the El Cajon Police Department.
But while speed may not have been a factor in the accident, residents say drivers often exceed the posted 25 mile per hour speed limit.
“What’s really bad is this street is well known for speeders. They want to try to dodge Broadway, so they come down Peach, thinking they’ll miss the lights,” said Gram.
Family friends have set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for medical and funeral expenses. Click here for more information.
