Family of 21-year-old killed in Pierce County car crash holds vigil – KIRO 7 News Seattle

PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. – It’s been nearly a week since two people were killed in a horrific crash at the intersection of 160th Street East and Canyon Road East.

On Sunday, friends and family of 21-year-old Elijah Williams gathered at this very intersection and held a vigil in his memory.

“His smile and his sense of humor. He was a very quiet person, but he just had the best smile,” said Elijah's aunt, Tomieka Quinn.

The Pierce County Sheriff's Office said Williams was turning at the intersection when someone attempted to run a red light at more than 130 mph and struck Williams.

This vigil drew a huge crowd to the intersection. Quinn told KIRO 7 that even people who didn't know Elijah and the family came to show their support during this difficult time.

“This is just love from the community. You know, this community cares. This is how we support each other in times of need. We had people come that didn't even know Elijah. They don't know our family. They just came to support us and him,” Quinn said.

Many people who came to the vigil shared their fondest memories of Elijah, but another topic of conversation that resonated with the crowd was how dangerous the intersection of Canyon Road and 160th Street can be.

“No family should have to endure the pain we are experiencing right now. We are asking for everyone's support to make this intersection in particular and all of Canyon Road safer. Together we can honor the memory of those we have lost and ensure no more lives are cut short,” Quinn said.

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help with funeral expenses.

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