5-Year-Old Girl Hit, Killed By Vehicle In McCandless

MCCANDLESS, Pa. (KDKA) - A little girl is dead after a tragic accident in the North Hills. Police believe 5-year-old Loujain Olleak stepped in front of a vehicle that just couldn't stop in time.

KDKA learned Loujain was set to begin kindergarten this fall at McKnight Elementary School.

People left flowers and a stuffed animal by the apartment mailboxes in honor of the young girl.

"It's just awful. I'm heartbroken. I'm sick to my stomach. I just hope everyone comes together and supports this family," Nicole Pierson said after leaving the stuffed animal. "We can't have this happen again."

McCandless Police said the little girl was hit by a vehicle on Salisbury Court.

"Heard a bunch of screaming and yelling going on," neighbor Rollin Engle said.

He was on his front porch as everything unfolded. He said people were trying to give aid to the girl before paramedics arrived. Her mother was getting help after witnessing the tragedy.

"It wasn't pretty. I could see the little girl. She wasn't moving," Engle said.

He said the driver was in shock after what happened.

"The vision that sticks in my mind is him praying over this little girl," Engle told KDKA.

Loujain was taken to UPMC Passavant Hospital but she was not able to pull through.

McCandless Police Chief Ryan Hawk said it was a heartbreaking scene. His officers feel for Loujain's family.

"It never gets easier. I am in contact with my officers who were first on scene last night and grief counseling is certainly an option at a time like this," he said outside the department.

He said this is a painful reminder to keep your children nearby.

"Keep your children on your arm at all times," he said.

The North Allegheny School District released this statement from Superintendent Dr. Melissa Friez:

"The news of Loujain's passing is heartbreaking. North Allegheny is sending our love and offering support to her family as well as the Hickory Hills and NA communities that are grieving the loss of their beloved child and neighbor.

"District counselors and psychologists will be present at McKnight Elementary School between 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 23 to assist the students and staff in coping with the loss and will continue to be available as needed."