A 13-year-old girl died Monday, July 4, four days after she was struck by an SUV while trying to walk across Hwy. 61 in Crystal City following the St. Pius X High School fireworks show, authorities reported.
The girl, Karli Payne of the Festus area, was struck by the vehicle the night of June 30.
Her parents, Lori and Jerry, said Karli died at 3:16 p.m. Monday.
“Anyone that knew Karli will tell you she was a funny, smart, respectful, caring, athletic, beautiful, young lady that had a heart of pure gold,” Jerry said in a Facebook post his daughter’s death. “ She loved playing volleyball, softball, and enjoyed baking and decorating cakes. Karli is a blessing and her memories will live on as she is donating her organs to help others needing a miracle. She is going to be dearly missed by all of us. She has affected the lives of so many individuals and families. Her family is forever grateful and appreciative of all the support, prayers and love that we have received during this difficult time.”
Later, on July 5, Lori said she will remember her daughter as “friendly, independent, ambitious, athletic and funny girl.”
Jerry said his daughter was a terrific volleyball and softball player and had served as captain of her volleyball team.
Father Gregory Klump, pastor of Our Lady Parish in Festus, said Karli would have been an eighth-grade student at the Our Lady Catholic School next school year.
“She has been (a student) with us for many years,” he said. “We are greatly appreciative of all the church family and those in the community who have shown their support for the (Payne) family in these difficult times.”
Crystal City Police Capt. Mike Pruneau said the accident occurred at about 9:35 p.m.
“After the fireworks show, she was crossing Hwy. 61 with her parents,” he said. “She ran out in front of (a vehicle) and was struck. (A Rock Township ambulance) that had just dropped someone off at (Mercy Hospital Jefferson) was right behind the accident and took her to (Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital in St. Louis).”
He said the girl suffered head trauma, among other injuries.
Pruneau said the 30-year-old Festus woman who was driving the 2020 Buick SUV that struck Karli was not at fault.
“The driver didn’t do anything wrong,” he said. “She was obeying the speed limit.”
St. Pius X President Jim Lehn called for prayers for the girl and her family.
“Our prayers go out to the family and everyone involved,” Lehn said. “It’s just a horrible accident.”
A prayer vigil on behalf of the child was held July 1 at Our Lady Catholic Church.