JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The family of a 16-year-old Atlantic Coast High School student is mourning the sudden loss of Alondra Martinez, who died after she was struck by a car near her bus stop.
Her family started a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses, and her sister, Alejandra Martinez, is working to keep her memory alive by sharing her story.
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The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office says it’s unclear whether Alondra was attempting to cross the road when she was hit. The driver stopped to assist and took her to a nearby medical facility. He also notified the police.
Alejandra recalled the moment she learned about the tragedy.
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“I heard that he had picked her up and took her to the hospital,” she said. “I wish he would have just called 911 instead of picking her up because maybe there would have been less damage … because she already flew from there all the way over there.”
The intersection of Old Kings Road and Habana Avenue where the crash occurred has been a long-standing concern for nearby residents. Alejandra believes safety measures should be added to prevent future accidents.
“I just wish that they would put, like, more light out here, more signals,” she said. “At least, like, more police or … this crosswalk where you could push the button, and it lights up so people know not to speed.”
James Raiford, a parent who lives in the area, echoed those concerns. He was driving to work shortly after the accident and says the intersection has been problematic for years, with multiple bus stops condensed into one and insufficient warning signs for drivers.
“The sign for the slowdown school zone, you can’t even see heading northbound until you’re on the school zone,” Raiford said. “So speeding here is a severe problem, and it’s just, unfortunately, a lot of culminating factors to get to the result we had.”
Alondra was a dedicated student who left a lasting impression on those who knew her.
“She was very thoughtful, very caring, very loving, hardworking,” Alejandra said. “She was great in school. She never skipped … She’d either be with her friends or with her boyfriend.”
Raiford expressed his sympathy for the family.
“Having your child pass before you is nothing any parent should ever have to go through,” he said.
Despite her grief, Alejandra is choosing to focus on the joyful memories of her sister.
“She was just the best,” she said. “She’s an amazing person. I don’t know why it had to be her, but everything happens for a reason, so I just can’t blame anybody.”
In response to the tragedy, Atlantic Coast High School Principal Michael George shared a message with families Friday.
Good afternoon Atlantic Coast High School families. This is Principal George calling.
It is with profound sadness that I call you this afternoon to share the news of the unexpected passing of one of our students, who was tragically struck by a vehicle earlier this morning while waiting at their bus stop. As a school community, we are brokenhearted by this tragic passing, and our heartfelt condolences go out to the family, friends, and our entire Stingray community during this incredibly difficult time.
Your child may be affected, even if they did not personally know the student. To assist our students and staff, specially-trained counselors and social workers are available on campus. Your child is important to our school community, and we want to do whatever we can to support them. However, if you would prefer that your child not participate in any of the grief counseling activities, please contact us via email to inform us of your wishes.
Last piece on my end is just, hug your folks. Moments like this emphasize that nothing in life is guaranteed. Make sure the people around you know how you feel about them each and every day.
Again, I am so sorry to have to bring you this news, and please feel free to contact me directly if you have any thoughts or questions.
Dr. Michael George Principal, Atlantic Coast High School
If you would like to donate to Martinez’s GoFundMe, you can click here.
