Parents fatally struck outside Gilroy school ID'd; community holds vigil, demands safer intersection
GILROY, Calif. (KGO) -- Tributes continue to pour in for a beloved couple, Andrew and Stacia Stuart. The couple was struck and killed by a teen driver on Jan. 16 while crossing the street near their children's elementary school in Gilroy. They leave behind 7-year-old twins.
On Friday, we spoke with Gilroy Mayor Greg Bozzo, who said this tragedy is impacting the community.
"I think that's why it's hitting so hard, is that people who are not directly affected by this, it really hurts," he said.
The crash happened at the intersection near Las Animas Elementary School during school drop-off. Many people in the neighborhood told ABC7 it's often crowded and a mess for parking during drop-off and pickup hours.
A relative of the Stuarts said safety measures around the school are inadequate, so she launched a petition on Change.Org. It calls for installing flashing crosswalk lights. So far, more than 3,000 people have signed it.
"We are going to receive that petition at some point in time, and once the investigation gets completed and find out what exactly happened that day, we will start thinking about some of the things we can input in this entire community to make our streets as safe as possible," said Mayor Bozzo.
RELATED: Mom struck by teen driver outside Gilroy elementary school dies days after dad, authorities say
On Friday, the Superintendent of the Gilroy Unified School District said in part: "This week has also been a time of careful listening and thoughtful reflection. We will continue to collaborate with the City to reinforce safety protocols on our campuses and to share feedback that supports improved safety throughout the broader community."
A joint meeting with city leaders is scheduled for Feb. 4.
"This family, and this community that is affected by this terrible tragedy is that we care and we hear you, and we are here for you," Mayor Bozzo.
RELATED: Father killed, mother seriously injured after being hit by teen driver in Gilroy, police say
The Stuarts are described as wonderful people. Stacia, was known in the local theatre community. South Valley Civic Theatre posted a tribute that said in part: "Stacia only graced our stages for three years, but her kindness, talent and vibrant joy won our hearts."
A cousin of Andrew Stuart told ABC7 that many family members plan on coming here to the memorial on Saturday. She said it's turning out to be a rather large gathering.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help the parents' 7-year-old twins and their family during this difficult time.
