BALA CYNWYD, Pa. (CBS) – The family of the woman who used a wheelchair and died last month in a collision in Lower Merion TownshipPennsylvania, speaks out.
The accident took place on City Avenue in Bala Cynwyd on November 11. Police identified the victim as 61-year-old Tracey Cary. Family members describe her as a lively and charismatic person.
“It was heartbreaking,” Sharon Cary-Irvine, Cary’s sister, said in an exclusive interview with CBS News Philadelphia. “She didn’t have to die like that.”
Family members said Cary had recently experienced homelessness and medical issues, but was deeply loved by those who knew her.
“Tracey has been through a lot, but she persevered,” said Linda Andrews-Holder, her cousin.
CBS News Philadelphia
Cary’s pastor, James E. Hawkins Sr. from Fresh Start Church in Philadelphia, said she came from a good family.
“She was always very kind and compassionate,” Hawkins said.
Lower Merion Township police said the driver responsible for the crash turned himself in this week. Cary’s sister said she is grateful to have a sense of closure.
“They worked hard on this case in Lower Merion, and they contacted the Philadelphia police officers because those police officers were determined, because they saw her as a human being and treated her the way she should have been treated,” Cary said. – said Irvine.
Despite their loss, the family remains hopeful. Their message is to treat others with compassion.
“Many of our families have people with addictions, alcohol or mental illness, so this could really come to your door today or tomorrow,” Cary-Irvine said. “Just treat people with kindness.”
