Family of boy killed in hit-and-run gather to pray for investigators

TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- A family and community rallied Tuesday evening, as investigators build their case against a driver suspected of a hit-and-run crash that killed a nine-year-old boy.

Right now, the two teenagers who turned themselves into police for the deadly crash are free. The Tulare County District Attorney is asking for more evidence before charging the boys in the death of Elijah Villarreal.

Eli's family tells Action News there's no reason to be angry anymore. Instead they're focusing their efforts on praying for investigators in hopes of getting justice.

A few moments in prayer are what the crowd gathered for outside Dinuba Police Headquarters Tuesday night.

Their clenched hands, bowed heads and fond memories are all for Eli. "It speaks a lot for Eli," said Florence Tuttle, Eli's second cousin. "His little being really reached out to so many people."

The young Christian sports fan died late last month near his home. He was playing outside with friends when a van struck him and dragged him down the road.

The two teen boys suspected of being in the van turned themselves into police a while after leaving the scene. But they were released from custody when the district attorney said he needed more evidence from investigators.

"As much as it seems unfair that they only got 48 hours, it also makes sense that evidence needs to be collected properly," Tuttle said.

Eli's family, once outraged, is now trying to be patient with the legal process. "Whether it's a right process or not, I don't know if I really agree with the process, with the exact detail of the law," Tuttle admitted. "Nonetheless, that's the way it is and we understand that at this point."

Dinuba's police chief told Action News his detectives are working on a thorough investigation. "It has to do with collecting evidence and getting some reports back that have to do with evidence processing," said Chief Devon Popovich.

The chief says this time is not only difficult for the family, but for his officers as well. "This (vigil) is great," he said. "I mean it's great to see support for Eli. They want justice, we want justice as well."

'Justice for Eli' signs are being posted in towns all around the south valley. "Just don't forget the sweet little boy that we're standing here for," Tuttle said.

Even though this process is long and painful for the family they say they will wade through it because they hope someone will be prosecuted for Eli's death.