Memorial grows for Avondale child struck by alleged DUI driver
11-year-old hit, killed by alleged drunk driver
A suspected drunk driver was arrested after an 11-year-old was hit and killed near 107th Avenue and Thomas Road, Avondale Police said.
AVONDALE, Ariz. - Police in Avondale say an 11-year-old is dead following a crash on the afternoon of Feb. 17.
What we know:
The incident happened in the area of 107th Avenue and Thomas Road around 5 p.m.
Investigators say a car was going through the intersection when it struck the victim. The victim was taken to the hospital, but died.
"The driver of the vehicle stayed on scene and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence," Avondale Police said.
She's identified as 35-year-old Madeline Manon.
Police did not identify the 11-year-old by name, but loved ones say his name is Javier.
What they're saying:
A day after the crash, mourners gathered to remember the little boy who lost his life.
Dozens of family members, friends and neighbors came out to pay their respects, leaving behind flowers, balloons and candles.
The impact an 11-year-old boy made is represented by the sheer number of items left behind at the crash site.
"It's sad. He's a young kid. He's barely learning about life and stuff," a neighbor named Leonard Gonzales said.
Candles lit up the sidewalk where tragedy struck.
"There's been a few accidents at this corner. Yes, there's a lot of traffic here. It's gotten worse," a neighbor named Mike Contreras said.
Neighbors say they saw the boy, who they call Javier, playing outside daily.
"Good kid. He was always riding around the scooters and stuff," Gonzales said. "I see him in the neighborhood all the time."