Family remembers GCU student killed in hit-and-run crash on Sunday

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Police are on the hunt for a hit-and-run driver after a Grand Canyon University student was struck and killed on Camelback Road Sunday night.

According to Sgt. Vince Lewis with Phoenix police, the collision happened at 8:20 p.m.near 31st Avenue and Camelback Road, just a short distance from Grand Canyon University.

Police say a 21-year-old Taylor White was jogging with a 17-year-old teen in the crosswalk when a white-colored SUV drove through the intersection on a red light and struck White.

"From what we were told by police, they believe a vehicle swerved around another vehicle heading westbound on Camelback, and immediately hit Taylor," said Taylor's father, Nate White.

White was pronounced dead at the scene by Phoenix firefighters. The 17-year-old teen who was with White was not injured.

Taylor was described by his parents as an adventurer who was often exploring the great outdoors. From Colorado, he was studying athletic training at GCU, and was supposed to get married in just two weeks to a fellow GCU students.

On Monday, GCU officials released a statement on Taylor's death:

"He lived life full, and if Taylor would have wanted anything, it would be that we go and live life full too," said Taylor's mother, Angela White.

At GCU, students said the mood on campus Monday was somber, and that Taylor will be deeply missed.

"I went on an outdoor guide rec trip because he was a guide for it to Antelope Canyon," said Mariah Duke. "He was really awesome and led the whole trip, and it was really cool to get to know him, but really sad now."

Police say the suspect's SUV may be a Ford or Lincoln. Meanwhile, Taylor's parents had a message for the driver responsible.

"For this person, whoever they are, we forgive you. We already forgave you last night," said Angela.

"If you're a neighbor or know who they are, please turn them in," said Nate. "Please turn them in."

If you have any information, please call Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS. Spanish speakers can leave an anonymous tip, in Spanish, by calling Testigo Silencioso at 480-TESTIGO.

Si tiene alguna información sobre este caso, llame a la línea de Testigo Silencioso (480-TESTIGO, 480-837-8446).