18 days ago
STOCKTON, CA - A 15-year-old Stockton girl hit by a car as she walked to school last Friday died over the weekend from her injuries. The parents of Ebonee Smith are devastated.
"The plans we had are gone. I don't want any parent to go through what we're feeling right now," said Willie Smith.
Stockton police said Ebonee was not using a crosswalk when she was hit by a car traveling south on West Lane. It was just after 7 a.m. and nearly dark. The driver wasn't cited.
Ebonee's parents are frustrated there won't be any punishment. "There's no skid marks there. (The driver) didn't put on the brakes," said Willie Smith.
But they also acknowledged jaywalking on any road, especially on busy West Lane, is a bad idea. West Lane has four lanes of traffic and a speed limit of 50 miles per hour.
"Look out for cars, wherever you are. The car has the right-of- way. If they hit you, it's all over," said Smith.
Ebonee was approaching McNair High School when she was struck. School officials recently reminded students in a newsletter to use crosswalks because drivers don't always see children crossing in other areas.
"We talk about being safe, whether driving or walking. We talk about being safe," said McNair Principal Jim Davis.
Monday afternoon, after McNair students were once again reminded about the deadly possibilities of jaywalking on West Lane, several students chose to maneuver through traffic rather than use crosswalks.
Ebonee's parents hope children eventually recognize the dangers and choose safety.
"Watch out for cars. We are suffering right now," said Smith.
News10/KXTV
