The Worcester community is reeling after 13-year-old Ayuen Leet was hit by a car and left in a coma at UMass Memorial Medical Center. The tragic incident occurred on Monday when Ayuen was crossing Shrewsbury Street in Worcester. Ayuen, a student in the African Community Education (ACE) program, has captured the hearts of many with her bright smile and kind demeanor.
ACE, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering African refugee and immigrant youth through educational and cultural programs, has been supporting Ayuen and her family during this difficult time. Ayuen, who emigrated from South Sudan to Massachusetts just over a year ago, is described as a hardworking student and a friendly individual who makes friends wherever she goes.
In response to Ayuen’s accident, ACE launched an online fundraiser to help cover her medical expenses. The fundraiser has already raised over $13,000, but the organization is aiming to reach a goal of $20,000. The outpouring of support from the community demonstrates the impact that Ayuen has had on those around her.
This tragic incident has shed light on the issue of pedestrian safety in Worcester. Recent pedestrian crashes, including one that claimed the life of another teenage girl, have prompted officials to declare a „traffic violence emergency.“ With over 2,800 motor vehicle crashes in Worcester in 2024 alone, authorities are taking action to address the high number of accidents.
Worcester’s Department of Transportation and Mobility has proposed plans to reduce the speed limit citywide from 30 mph to 25 mph and establish 20 mph „safety zones“ to improve pedestrian safety. These measures aim to create a safer environment for pedestrians and reduce the risk of accidents on the city’s streets.
As the community rallies around Ayuen and her family, the focus remains on supporting her recovery and preventing future accidents. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of pedestrian safety and the need for proactive measures to protect vulnerable road users. Worcester residents are coming together to support Ayuen and advocate for safer streets for all.