LAVA, NY — An 11-year-old girl was struck and killed on NYS Rte. 52 last night while walking with a companion, reportedly to pet a dog, according to Undersheriff Eric Chaboty of the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office.

Officers responded at 8:50 p.m. on Sunday, August 4, to a call involving a car and pedestrian at 7090 State Route 52 in Lava, NY.

Chabody said the 11-year-old, identified as Delana Weyandt, was transferred to Grover M. Hermann Hospital in Callicoon, where she was pronounced dead. 

The driver stayed at the scene, had no signs of impairment, and passed a field sobriety test, said Chaboty. The NYS Police investigated the accident at the scene. Chaboty said no arrests or charges have been made at this time, and that the incident remains under investigation.

The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office was the lead agency with the assistance of the NYS Police K-9 division.

A family member, Sophia Weyandt, started a fundraising campaign through Gofundme.com to pay for funeral expenses. On that page, she writes: “My sister and I were walking and we went to cross the road safely. We looked both ways and held each other’s hand. A driver came speeding and before I could move her, it was too late. He hit her. She sadly passed away in my arms. I tried so hard to do what I could, learning from school.

“If anyone can help with money for the funeral, it would be much appreciated. She was such a sweet soul and was taken too early."

Editor's note: This story has been updated to correct Delana Weyandt's first name, which was incorrect in initial reports. The River Reporter regrets the error.