GoFundMe
In aFacebookpost Wednesday morning, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said the “automobile-vs.-pedestrian” accident occurred at Venneford Ranch Road and Highlands Ranch Parkway in Highlands Ranch, resulting in a traffic closure.
“DCSO Traffic Team is now conducting a fatal traffic crash investigation,” the sheriff’s office wrote in an update. “It is confirmed that the pedestrian is deceased. The driver stayed on the scene.”
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A Douglas County Sheriff’s Office representative told PEOPLE in an email Friday that no further details have been released and investigators are still working on the case.
“Alex journeyed to school that day brimming with the excitement and anticipation of his first baseball practice of the season,” Cegielski wrote.
She added, “Alex loved baseball and was a great athlete, proudly batting and pitching lefty. Alex was not just a son, brother, and friend but a light in the lives of all who knew him. He was a gentle, kind, and caring soul who loved his family. In his passing, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of community support.”
A candlelight vigil was held for Alex Thursday night at the intersection in Highlands Ranch where he was killed, ABC affiliateKMGHreported.
“He made me a better father and a better person,” Alex’s stepdad, Owen Cegielski, said, per NBC affiliateKUSA. “I couldn’t have asked for a better son in my life and I’m going to truly miss him. And this is all dedicated for him and I wanted to thank you all and the community for reaching out to us and helping us.”
Alex’s friends also paid tribute, with Elijah Storie telling Fox affiliateKDVRthat “he was kind, nice and funny.” Shawn Judd, a classmate, said Alex “was a very funny kid, always respectful … very kind and giving.”
Alex’s aunt, meanwhile, wrote in the GoFundMe that his family is now facing financial hurdles — including a funeral and other related expenses — following the boy’s death.
PEOPLE reached out to Wendy Cegielski for additional comment.
source: people.com
