Community members in Avondale mourn death of child hit by alleged drunk driver

AVONDALE, Ariz. — A West Valley community is grieving after an 11-year-old boy was killed by a suspected drunk driver.

A group of about 100 people gathered near the intersection of 107th Avenue and Thomas Road Tuesday night to pay respects to the boy.

They left candles, flowers, stuffed animals and balloons on the side of the road.

“I love him dearly,” a friend who wished to remain anonymous said. “He was just very fun, a great person, great soul. It’s so terrible to see that he’s gone.”

Avondale Police said the boy was hit by a car while crossing the street on a mini bike Monday evening. The car was traveling westbound through the intersection. He was in the marked crosswalk.

The boy was taken to the hospital where he later died.

“He did not deserve what happened at all. He should be standing here right now, but he’s not,” the friend said.

Police identified the driver as 35-year-old Madeline Manon. She was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

“It’s just heartbreaking and deeply upsetting to see that this continues to happen, especially with a child being involved.” Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Arizona Victim Services Manager Clarissa Meda said. 

Meda said crashes involving drivers under the influence are always preventable.

“It’s important to designate a non-drinking, non-using driver to where they’re completely sober and ensures everyone gets home safely,” Meda said.

The boy was a sixth grader at Garden Lakes Elementary School. 

“It is with great sadness that we share the heartbreaking news of the passing of one of our students over the long weekend. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the student’s family during this difficult time. Out of respect for the family, we will not be sharing any additional details,” Principal Cynthia Soe Myint said in a letter sent home to students.

Classmates of the boy said he was smart, athletic and a good person.

“He was a great kid. He was really funny and he always made me laugh somehow,” Pablo Picasso, a friend, said.

Garden Lakes Elementary School said it has counselors available for students and staff who need support.

Avondale Police is still investigating. Charges are pending a blood analysis of the driver.

You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app! 

The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like “Today in AZ” and “12 News” and our daily lifestyle program, “Arizona Midday”—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV. 

12News+  showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona. 

Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives. 

Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for “12 News KPNX.” 

Amazon Fire TV: Search for “12 News KPNX” to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app. 

Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.