Friends hold vigil for Everett teenager who died after crash

EVERETT, Wash. — They came bearing gifts to honor 14-year-old Perla Hernandez, remembered as a feisty presence in the lives of those she knew.

"She's always been a fun little person that had a little bit of attitude," said Chris Cabana as he placed flowers on a memorial for the teen.

Her freshman classmates at Cascade High School say she was so full of life.

"Yeah, she liked to have fun all the time," said classmate Lillian Menyweather. "She was never boring."

"Perla did touch people's lives," said Makayla Hoard, also a classmate. "I'm happy that we can get together and celebrate."

Friends said Hernandez had just rounded the street corner a few steps from home -- when a car struck her on the sidewalk. The driver may have lost control because a 16-year-old behind the wheel of another car is believed to have failed to yield the right of way.

Neighbors rushed out as Hernandez's mother came upon the terrible scene.

"It was like watching a train wreck," said Amanda Albrightson. "(It was the) worst thing I've ever seen in my life."

Police are still working to determine who is at fault. The cars of both drivers have been impounded. It will be up to the Snohomish County prosecutor to decide if anyone charges will be filed. We will let you know what he decides when that information becomes available.

"It's really sad that she was so young," said her friend, Brianna Smith. "(I'm) sad that this happened."

KIRO