Heartbreaking Hit-and-Run in Chicago Claims Life of 22-Year-Old Marcela Herrera, Fiancé Seriously Injured

Heartbreaking Hit-and-Run in Chicago Claims Life of 22-Year-Old Marcela Herrera, Fiancé Seriously Injured

CHICAGO (Pilsen neighborhood) — A devastating hit‑and‑run incident on Saturday, July 19, 2025, left Marcela Herrera, 22, dead and her fiancé, Mauricio Leyva, 21, seriously injured as they walked together just weeks before their planned August wedding. The shocking incident occurred at approximately 11:20 p.m. at the intersection of Ashland Avenue and Cullerton Street, where the couple was struck while crossing in a marked crosswalk. The driver fled the scene immediately, leaving no aid or identity behind

🚨 The Incident

• Marcela and Mauricio were on their way to dinner after Marcela had completed her shift at the Tacos y Tamales Festival, an event she helped organize.

• The couple was crossing in a crosswalk when a silver or gray SUV, assessed by witnesses as traveling at high speed, struck them both and continued onward without stopping.

• Both Marcela and Mauricio were rushed to Saint Anthony Hospital/Stroger Hospital. Marcela was pronounced dead at the hospital, while Mauricio sustained serious injuries and is recovering

🙏 Remembering Marcela

Often described by her community as a “radiant soul,” Marcela was passionate about youth outreach. She worked at the Rainforest Learning Center in the South Loop, organizing events focused on mental health and cultural celebration, including the Day of the Dead festival.

Friends recall her dedication to helping others, especially children and immigrant youth, and her affinity for staying connected with her community.

Her wedding was scheduled for August 21, 2025, a date that now looms as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the love shared with Mauricio.

🧭 Community Response & Pursuit of Justice

• Family, friends, and community members gathered on July 26 at the crash site—draped in pink T‑shirts bearing Marcela’s image and the message “Justice for Marcela”—to pray, lay flowers, and raise awareness.

• Disappointment has been voiced over the slow progress: community leaders noted that police had not secured surveillance footage from nearby businesses days after the incident.

• A $1,000 reward is now being offered by Cook County Crime Stoppers for credible information leading to the arrest of the driver.

• A GoFundMe campaign in Marcela’s honor has raised over $30,000, with a separate fund supporting Mauricio’s medical care. The community is also working to establish a scholarship in Marcela’s name to support undocumented youth—a cause close to her heart.

🚦 Broader Context & Safety Concerns

• The collision occurred along Ashland Avenue, a wide, multi-lane street with high traffic and pedestrian flow—areas identified as prone to speed and visibility risks.

• Local advocates have called on city officials to improve pedestrian safety infrastructure, like lighting, crosswalk design, and enforcement, to prevent similar tragedies.

📝 Summary Table

❤️ In Closing

Marcela Herrera is remembered as a vibrant, caring young woman whose energy and compassion defined every space she touched. Mauricio Leyva survives with serious injuries—physically bruised, but emotionally bonded to her memory. The community’s determination to seek justice reflects Marcela’s legacy of connection, service, and hope.

If you witnessed the incident or have any relevant information, please contact Chicago Police Department at (312) 745-4521, or submit an anonymous tip online at cpdtip.com or via text “CPDTIP” to 738‑477.

Together, we honor Marcela by standing in solidarity and striving to ensure that no light is extinguished without pursuit of truth.