A southern California family is mourning and demanding justice after a bride-to-be was struck and killed by a hit and run driver while she was waiting at a bus stop in San Diego.
Police said that 27-year-old Katie Osorio was fatally struck by a driver who drove up on the sidewalk, and killed the young girl who was just sitting waiting for the bus inside a partially enclosed bench to take her to her second job, before the driver took off.
The accident happened on Friday at the corner of National Avenue, near 35th Street in San Diego. Osario was transported to a local hospital but died from her injuries, ABC10 News reported.
“Tragically, while waiting at a bus stop in San Diego, Katie was the victim of a hit-and-run accident,” a message from a GoFundMe for Katie read.
“She fought bravely to stay alive, but sadly, she passed away. Our family is devastated by this sudden loss, and we are doing everything we can to honor her memory and support her loved ones during this heartbreaking time.”
Osorio’s cousin, Evelin Osorio, said Katie was getting ready to enroll in a nursing program and had been busy planning her wedding to her beau in December.
“A big wedding in Mexico City in December and doing a courthouse in July,” Evelin said.
The cousin said those who witnessed the tragedy found the bride’s phone and called family members to let them know what had happened.
“There were people at the scene notifying us, the person kind of reversed and tried leaving, and did go over her body again,” Evelin said.
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“Just the act of not stopping is a vicious and cruel crime. We want justice for Katie. We want for her name to continue living on.”
The driver of the vehicle was later located and arrested. She has since been identified as Assmaa Elayyat, 41, who works for San Diego county, as the Deputy Director for Self-Sufficiency Services, according to 2024 county records.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of this tragic loss of life,” a statement from the county to FOX 5 read.
“Our hearts go out to the family, friends, and all who are grieving during this incredibly difficult time.”
She was booked on several hit and run charges, including vehicular manslaughter. At this time, it is unclear if alcohol or drugs played a role in the accident.
Elayyat posted bond and is expected to be arraigned on Monday June 1.
The Post reached out to the police department and county of San Diego for further comment.
