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Family wants justice after 19-year-old killed in hit-and-run
A grieving family in Sedro-Woolley is demanding changes to Washington's justice system after a 19-year-old woman was killed in a Fourth of July hit-and-run by a driver with a lengthy criminal history.
SEATTLE - A grieving family in Sedro-Woolley is demanding changes to Washington's justice system after a 19-year-old woman was killed in a Fourth of July hit-and-run by a driver with a lengthy criminal history.
On Monday, a judge set bail at $750,000 for the suspect, who now faces felony charges of vehicular homicide and hit-and-run.
According to the Sedro-Woolley Police Department, the suspect was speeding and driving under the influence on Highway 20 and Township Street when he struck Anahi Mendoza. Police said the driver fled the scene but was located and arrested a short time later. Mendoza died at the scene.
Suspect in Sedro-Woolley hit-and-run.
A systemic failure, family says
During the Monday court hearing, prosecutors revealed that the suspect has a sprawling criminal record spanning multiple states. In Washington alone, he holds 17 felony convictions, including vehicular assault, multiple counts of attempting to elude law enforcement, theft, and attempted assault.
"He has not gone approximately more than two years without being arrested on new charges since 1989," prosecutors stated during the hearing.
Mendoza’s family expressed profound anger and confusion over why a repeat offender with such a history was allowed on the streets.
"I don’t understand how he was let out time and time and time again," said Jennifer Neustedt, Mendoza’s aunt. "We need to change the policies in this state with this catch-and-release. You hear about these things on the news, and you don’t think it’s going to be you […] this could have been avoided."
Anahi Mendoza
Remembering Anahi Mendoza
Family members attended the court hearing dressed in pink — Mendoza’s favorite color — to honor the teenager, whom they described as a pillar of strength and a bright light with big dreams.
"We just are broken, we’re broken," Neustedt said. "She was her mother’s rock, she was her hero."
"She was just one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever met," Alora Richards, Anahi’s cousin said.
What's Next: Because the driver waived his right to a speedy arraignment, his next court appearance is scheduled for July 16.
The family has set up an online fundraiser to help with funeral arrangements. You can find it here.
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The Source: Information in this story comes from original reporting by FOX 13 Seattle reporter Shirah Matsuzawa.