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Sidewalk Memorial Honors Teen Killed By Dump Truck In McKeesport

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – A spot on the sidewalk near the intersection of Hartman Street and O'Neil Boulevard in McKeesport has now become a makeshift memorial.

Flowers and gold and purple scarf have been placed around street post where a teen was killed Thursday afternoon on her way home from school.

Police say 14-year-old Alyson Higdon of McKeesport was killed after getting hit by a dump truck while crossing the street.

"She was really nice and she was fun and it's a shame that she's gone," said friend Autumn Snyder.

It happened around 3 p.m. Thursday. She was taken to the hospital, but died just before 8:20 p.m.

Snyder has been in class with Higdon wince kindergarten. She stopped by the memorial site Friday with her father, leaving behind a teddy bear for her dear friend.

"She was a nice person and she only wanted the best for everybody," Snyder said. "She'll be missed."

Police do not believe speed played a factor in the fatal accident. Although some people had issues with the lack of safety and crossing guards before and after school.

"She may have tried to cross the street while the light was red, but the light turned green and traffic started moving and she may have darted in front of the truck," said Lt. Andrew Schurman, of Allegheny County Police Thursday after the accident. "We believe her view may have been obstructed by a school bus that was in line waiting to move in traffic."

Police say they'll be taking a closer look at the intersections around the schools and evaluate if any changes need to be made.

Stay with KDKA for more information.

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