Accident – Death – Obituary News :
HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. — The community gathered Thursday evening for a heartfelt candlelight vigil at the intersection where a tragic incident took place, claiming the life of a beloved seventh-grader from Highlands Ranch.
Community Support
Surrounded by classmates, friends, and family, the memorial at Venneford Ranch Road and Highlands Ranch Parkway grew with large photos and heartfelt messages for 13-year-old Alex Mackiewicz. His family stood alongside the gathered crowd, sharing memories of the Mountain Ridge Middle School student.
Call for Change
“That’s our wish of value for Alex’s life, that we do something about this,” expressed Alex’s step-father, addressing the need for changes to the intersection where the tragic accident occurred.
Investigation Ongoing
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office reported that the fatal crash occurred just before 7 a.m. on Wednesday. Deputy Cocha Heyden, spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, confirmed that the driver involved in the incident remained at the scene.
Community Concerns
Alex’s mother pledged to be present at the intersection every morning at 6:48 a.m., the exact time her son lost his life while using the crosswalk. Concerns about the safety of the intersection have been raised, prompting the community to call for improvements.
The sheriff’s office revealed that from January 2021 to January 2024, there have been a total of eight crashes at the intersection, none resulting in injuries until this tragic event.
Neighbourhood Response
Residents in the area highlighted speeding along the 45 mph parkway as a significant issue that needs urgent attention. “Our community needs to come together and find a solution to prevent such tragedies from happening again,” shared a concerned neighbour, Diana Lujan.
As investigations into the crash continue, the community remains united in their grief and determination to make the intersection safer for all pedestrians.
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