Vigil held for Parlier student who was hit and killed by car while walking home

PARLIER, Calif. (KFSN) -- It's been less than a week since the tragic car crash that killed Fernanda Perez-Aldama right outside Parlier Junior High School.

The 13-year-old was killed near Madsen Avenue and Amigo Drive while walking home from school Friday night.

Tuesday night, family, classmates, and school staff members huddled together as they remembered Fernanda.

Balloons in the shape of a rosary hovered above the large crowd.

"I hope they know what kind of person she was. She was such a nice person and I hope they know that," said Kaethzriy Plascencia, a friend.

Friends say Fernanda's absence at school on Tuesday was just the beginning of the hole they'll feel in their lives forever.

She was such a kind person. She was so responsible. She was nice to everybody, she didn't talk bad about no one," said Kaethzriy.

Fernanda was walking home from school with a group of friends Friday evening.

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They were using this crosswalk, which has flashing lights, when a car hit Fernanda, killing her.

"The kids did experience trauma, the kids that were with Fernanda, but we are giving them the support that they need. We were extra prepared to support the staff and the students this morning," said Parlier Unified School District Superintendent Rafael Iniguez.

He says the school district is offering support to students and staff, as well as the family, while the investigation into the crash continues.

"We've conducted multiple interviews today, follow up interviews, looking at all the footage and talking to as many people as we can," said Parlier Police Officer Cameron Royer.

The driver did stay on scene and call 9-1-1. Police say they don't believe the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Loved ones are continuing to hold onto their faith and memories as they grieve.

"I've just been thinking about her so much. I'm going to miss her so much," Kaethzriy said.

The school district was collecting money to give to the family at the vigil.

A GoFundMe account has been set up to help the teen's family.

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