Truck Hits, Kills Girl On Bike On Christmas

SAN ANTONIO -- A 7-year-old girl who was riding the new bicycle she got as a Christmas gift was hit and killed Tuesday morning.

Jackie Solis and her brother were riding their new bikes when the girl was hit by a passing vehicle, KSAT-TV in San Antonio reported.

The unidentified driver told police he didn't see the child. Police said the driver stopped immediately and tried to help.

"The driver is extremely distraught," a police spokesman said. "He's just having a very difficult time coming to grips with what's occurred here today, as we are."

Throughout the day, people placed cards, flowers and stuffed animals at a makeshift memorial where the girl died. A candlelight vigil was held Tuesday evening. Overcome with grief during the vigil, Jackie's mother knelt on the sidewalk and cried.

After Jackie got her new bike, she went outside to ride with her brother. Police said the brother went inside for water and Jackie kept riding.

Police said she was riding on the sidewalk, but rode into the road to turn around. That's when she was hit.

Police said Jackie, who was not wearing a helmet, died from severe head injuries.

Raul Guerra, Jackie's uncle, said his niece was a cheerful and outgoing girl.

"She was very active with all the little kids in the community," Guerra said. "She was just a joy."

Guerra said Jackie's parents are stricken with grief.

"It's just a real tragedy," he said.

He recalled that the girl had gone caroling up and down the street Christmas Eve. He said he doesn't know how the family will be able to cope with future Christmases.

The driver wasn't speeding, and police said he won't face criminal charges.