A fifth grader in Tierrasanta is recovering from serious injuries she suffered in a hit-and-run crash that killed her best friend.
The death of 10-year-old Raquel Rosete has touched the lives of so many but none so profoundly as best friend Mekayla Lee who survived this tragedy.
Hundreds attended a vigil for Rosete in Orlek Park Thursday just 100 yards from the accident scene.
The girls were hit by a car Saturday while walking north along a sidewalk on Santo Road.
Investigators say Julianne Little was behind the wheel. Little has pleaded not guilty to charges of vehicular manslaughter, hit and run. Her attorney said Little fell asleep at the wheel as a result of stress from a stalker.
Lee was among several hundred candle holders including Doris Elementary school mates, parents, teachers and members of Rosete's family.
“I wanted to pay my respects to Raquel that was my main priority,” Lee said.
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Lee moved slowly from her mother's car as friends waited to greet her. She suffered severe injuries and for now uses a wheelchair to get around.
“I'm feeling better you know I'm going up and down the stairs you know. I'm doing better,” she said.
Lee wants to keep the focus on Raquel who was declared brain dead Tuesday.
Her mother says the two girls were inseparable.
“She was more than just a best friend she was her little sister. She was family to us she was always at my house she was a beautiful little girl,” Elizabeth Lee said.
The group remembered Rosete with pink balloons, candles and silent prayer.
“I am going to represent my sister as a caring loving person who forgives everyone. I am pretty sure she would want me to do that,” Raquel’s sister Jessica Rosete said.
Families of both victims are touched by all the support. Lee’s mom says daughter needed this.
Mekayla is strong; despite all her composure the road to recovery may be longer than it appears.
“Her injuries, her bruises are going to heal but mentally and emotionally she will be scarred,” Elizabeth Lee said.
