2 teens, 15 and 16, die after being hit in California crosswalk. Police seek video

The second of the two girls struck in a Modesto, California, crosswalk Friday night has died, according to family.

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The crash happened about 8:50 p.m. Friday in the 1100 block of Coffee Road near Downey High School in the Central Valley city. Police officers performed lifesaving efforts on the girls until medical personnel took over.

Nicole Cotzojay, 15, had clung to life Saturday after fellow Modesto High School student Camila Mendoza Magallon, 16, died from her injuries caused by the crash.

GoFundMe pages were established for both girls, and Nicole’s from the start has been titled “Help Support Nicole’s Funeral Expenses.” But the content initially read in part, “We have been told that she may not survive.”

Her family’s fear came to pass on Sunday, according to an update on the GoFundMe page: “Our family has received heartbreaking news from the doctors regarding her condition, and we have been told that she did not make it. We want to clarify that Nicole has passed away.

“Just 7 days before this tragedy, we were celebrating Nicole’s 15th birthday. What should have been a time filled with happiness and beautiful memories has turned into one of the most painful moments our family has ever experienced.”

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On a GoFundMe page titled “In Loving Memory of Camila Mendoza Magallon,” Selena Guerrero wrote, “Camila was an amazing daughter and sister, deeply loved by everyone fortunate enough to know her. At just 16 years old, she had so much life ahead of her, and it is impossible to put into words the pain of losing her far too soon. She will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and her love and memory will live on through all of us who cherish her.”

A message sent from Modesto City Schools Superintendent Vanessa Buitrago to district families on Saturday afternoon reads in part, “The loss of a young life is an unimaginable tragedy, and we know this news will be especially difficult for the students, staff, and families of Modesto High School. In the days ahead, our district will ensure that counseling and emotional support resources are available to students and staff who need them.

“During moments of profound sorrow, the strength of a school community is found in the compassion and care we extend to one another. I ask that we come together in support of the families affected by this tragedy, respect their privacy, and surround all those who are grieving with kindness and understanding. It may seem like a small gesture, but expressing support for our MoHi families can be as simple as wearing the Panther colors, red and black, this Monday and Tuesday.”

The Police Department’s preliminary investigation of the collision indicates the driver was traveling south on Coffee Road and struck the girls, who were in a crosswalk. Details of how the collision occurred are under investigation.

The driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. A drug evaluation found no signs of impairment.

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Police continue to review the scene and seek potential surveillance video.

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