The 16-year-old El Capitan senior - known to some as Smiley Riley -- died in a car accident Saturday in Sacramento. Her stepfather told us Riley was like his own child.
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"She has got this bright smile, she's just incredibly bright and straight-A student," Matthew Escobar said.
Outside of their home, hundreds gathered -- many wearing Riley's favorite color yellow to honor her life. Her color guard members even performing a special dance for the popular teen in front of her driveway.
Riley's sister said the sudden loss has devastated her family, especially their mom who was too emotional to talk.
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"She's our mother," Katie Escobar told Action News. "It's very hard on her but I know Riley will always be with her to support her in her heart."
Meantime, Riley's friends are preparing a balloon release during their high school's football game Friday.
And Saturday a fundraiser will take place to raise money for her parents and seven siblings who are struggling with this new reality.