12-year-old Esamay Heese passed away Saturday after she was hit by a vehicle in northwest Wichita. Her father hopes kids really think about this and pay attention. He wants to let the driver know that he does not blame them.
The Wichita Police Department says the crash happened at approximately 5:40 p.m. when officers were called to the 7000 block of W. 13th Street in response to a traffic collision involving a pedestrian. Upon arrival, officers located a 12-year-old girl who had been struck by a Jeep SUV that was traveling westbound on 13th Street.
The victim was transported to a local hospital where she passed away. Her father identified her Monday as Esamay Heese. USD 259 said she was a student at Wilbur Middle School.
Esamay’s dad told KAKE News he wants kids to really think about this and pay attention. He said he wanted to reach out and forgive the driver, adding that he does not blame them. Esamay’s sister, Lydia, was with her, but she was not hurt.
A GoFundMe has been established to help Esamay’s family, and a candlelight vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday at the memorial site, just east of Ridge on the north side of 13th Street. Click here for more details.
WPD says they are investigating the crash, and anyone with information who has not yet spoken to investigators is encouraged to contact the Wichita Police Department at 316-268-4407. For those wishing to remain anonymous, please reach out to Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.
