San Diego, California — A southern California family is mourning the devastating loss of a young bride-to-be who was killed in a horrific hit-and-run crash while waiting for a bus on her way to work.
Authorities say 27-year-old Katie Osorio was sitting inside a partially enclosed bus stop bench when a driver suddenly veered onto the sidewalk and struck her before fleeing the scene.
Bride-to-Be Killed While Waiting for Bus
The tragic crash happened on Friday near the corner of National Avenue and 35th Street in San Diego.
According to police, Osorio was waiting for public transportation to take her to her second job when the deadly incident occurred.
Emergency responders rushed her to a nearby hospital after the crash, but despite efforts to save her life, she later died from her injuries.
A message shared through a GoFundMe created for the family described the heartbreak surrounding her death.
“Tragically, while waiting at a bus stop in San Diego, Katie was the victim of a hit-and-run accident,” the message read.
“She fought bravely to stay alive, but sadly, she passed away. Our family is devastated by this sudden loss, and we are doing everything we can to honor her memory and support her loved ones during this heartbreaking time.”
Family Says Victim Was Planning Wedding and Future Career
Loved ones say Osorio had been preparing for an exciting new chapter in her life before the tragedy.
According to her cousin, Evelin Osorio, Katie had recently been planning to enroll in a nursing program while also preparing for her upcoming wedding.
“A big wedding in Mexico City in December and doing a courthouse in July,” Evelin said.
Family members described her as hardworking and determined, balancing multiple jobs while planning her future with her fiancé.
The sudden loss has left relatives and friends shattered as they struggle to process the violent and unexpected tragedy.
Witnesses Tried to Alert Family
Evelin said witnesses at the scene recovered Katie’s phone and contacted family members to tell them what had happened.
She also shared disturbing details about the moments following the crash.
“There were people at the scene notifying us, the person kind of reversed and tried leaving, and did go over her body again,” Evelin said.
The family says the driver’s alleged decision to flee after the collision has only deepened their grief and anger.
“Just the act of not stopping is a vicious and cruel crime. We want justice for Katie. We want for her name to continue living on.”
County Employee Arrested in Connection With Crash
Authorities later located and arrested the driver allegedly involved in the deadly hit-and-run.
Police identified the suspect as Assmaa Elayyat, 41, who reportedly works for San Diego County as the Deputy Director for Self-Sufficiency Services, according to county records.
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County officials released a statement expressing sympathy following the tragedy.
“We are deeply saddened to learn of this tragic loss of life,” the statement read.
“Our hearts go out to the family, friends, and all who are grieving during this incredibly difficult time.”
Driver Faces Multiple Charges
Elayyat was booked on several charges related to the incident, including vehicular manslaughter and hit-and-run offenses.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether alcohol or drugs played a role in the crash.
Records show the suspect later posted bond and is expected to appear for arraignment on Monday, June 1.
Meanwhile, Katie Osorio’s family continues mourning the loss of a young woman whose future was suddenly taken away just months before her wedding day.
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