Family hopes teen's death is a warning to other drivers to stay alert
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The family of a teenager hit and killed on Beltway 8 last weekend is holding a vigil Saturday to honor her and to help prevent similar tragedies.
Sha'cory Brooks turned 18 just last month. Her family, including young siblings, is still trying to accept that she's gone.
"She wasn't just anybody. She was a loved one. She was a child. She was my child," her mother Shan'tricia Robinson said.
Brooks was headed home on the Beltway when her car broke down.
Law enforcement said another vehicle hit her Ford Fusion and as she was outside the car looking at the damage, a third vehicle struck the car, killing her.
"When you have kids and they're babies, you hold them in your arms. As they get older and become toddlers, you carry them in your lap. When they get older, you carry them in your heart. The only thing I have now is her name and just memories. And her in my heart," Robinson said.
She said Brooks was about to graduate high school and had plans to join the military. Now in the midst of their grief, the family is hoping their loss may help save others.
"She's not the first person that's got hit and killed on this Beltway," Robinson said.
The family said they hope this can be a reminder for drivers to pay attention; even a second glancing away from the road can lead to disaster. But they also remind families to cherish their time together and realize that tomorrow is not guaranteed.
The family is holding a vigil Saturday near the location of the accident. It is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in the parking lot of 4660 North Sam Houston Parkway East.
"We never know when it's going to be their time. We never know when our kids leave home if they're going to make it back to us," Robinson said. "It's just that I have a hole in my heart, because she's not here with us. I don't want no parent to go through what I went through."
The family has set up a GoFundMe account to help pay for this unexpected funeral.
The other drivers involved in the crash were questioned and released by law enforcement at the scene.
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