The driver who hit and killed a young Worcester woman in a crosswalk last month has been charged in her death.
Gabriella Lowell, 20, was fatally struck on Grafton Street, a half-mile from her home, on June 12.
Her grandfather, Ken Garabedian, told Boston 25 News Gabby was walking home from McDonald's where she had met her girlfriend when around 9 p.m. It was dark out and she was about three-quarters of the way through the crosswalk she was hit by the SUV.
The 21-year-old driver stopped at the scene, sobbing as police investigated. He was taken away in the passenger seat of a police cruiser for questioning.
Police confirmed Tuesday the driver has now been charged with motor vehicle homicide, operating a motor vehicle to endanger and distracted driving.
Worcester police did not identify the driver Tuesday, citing their policy not to release the names of suspects they have not arrested.
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Garabedian said the charges bring some semblance of justice for his family but they will never be the same.
"I don’t think there will ever be any closure. Gabby was so important to all of us," Garabedian said. "It’s a very difficult thing for any parent or grandparent to deal with."
Garabedian described his granddaughter as a "special girl" who was goofy and full of life. She was her mother's only child, an energetic young woman who loved to sing and laugh.
To make the area safer for everyone, Gabby's mother is now working to get a light pole installed at the crosswalk where Gabby lost her life. She hopes her grief will prevent another family's tragedy.
"Gabby’s light," Garabedian said. "That’s the most important thing now, to have a light there."
Garabedian said Gabby has already saved a life. She was an organ donor, and after her death she helped others in need.