Catoosa Students Raise Money For Accident Victim's Family

NewsOn6.com

CATOOSA, OK -- A deadly accident leaves a ripple effect through the community of Catoosa.

Kristen Harper, 12, died when she was hit by a pick-up while walking home from school Thursday. 

On Saturday afternoon, students hit hard by her death held a fundraiser at the Reasor's Grocery Store in Catoosa. Donations were accepted and the group sold ribbons and flowers to raise money for funeral expenses. More than $1,100 was raised.

Catoosa student Dustin Jones, 13, spent his Saturday afternoon helping.

"She was in the 6th grade and still had a whole bunch of life to go," Jones said. "I hope to raise money for her family so they can know that some people actually do care."

"It is really hard for them to suffer the loss of losing a child and we all know it must be really hard," said Ashlee Hulsey, who also helped with the fundraiser.

The 12-year-old had missed the bus and crossed a busy two-lane road. She was struck and killed by a pickup truck. Police say the driver was not negligent but did not have time to react.

2/12/2010 Related Story: Witness Recalls Accident That Killed Catoosa Girl

2/11/2010 Related Story: Girl Dies After Being Hit By Pickup Truck Outside Catoosa School