Watch CBS News

Neighborhood Mourns Death Of Marysville Student

MARYSVILLE (CBS13) – Neighbors and friends held a vigil at a growing memorial near the scene of a deadly accident that claimed the life of a young girl walking to school Thursday morning.

The Marysville Police Department said the third grade student, identified by neighbors and friends as 9-year-old Julianna Villa-Hopkins, lost her grip on her bike while walking across East 17th Street near Huston Street, and when she bent down to pull it upright, an SUV hit her.

Julianna was rushed to the hospital but died from her injuries.

Photos, candles and notes were added one by one to a memorial near the scene of the accident as friends tried to make sense of the unthinkable tragedy.

"She was very thoughtful and talented. I just can't believe she died," said friend Tyler Klingenfuss, who couldn't hold back tears.

Police said the incident appears to be a tragic accident and have not arrested the driver, Cassandra Federspiel of Marysville. Although the investigation is still ongoing, drugs and alcohol do not appear to be factors, police said.

Neighbors said speeding has been a big problem in the area.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.