LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Friends and family organized a car wash on Saturday to assist with the medical costs of a 14-year-old Valley High School freshman who was seriously injured last month when she was struck by a pickup truck.
In the parking lot directly across from Valley High School, the event in honor of Chelsea Madrigal was a resounding success, with homemade food, music, and car wash signs. “As soon as I found out, I started thinking what can I do to help? What can I do to be there for Chelsea,” said Nicole Cruz-Rivera, a friend. Madrigal, who attended the car wash, expressed her gratitude, stating, “The doctor said it’s a miracle I’m still here.” She added, “I’m not someone that gets down so I just want to thank my friends and family for doing all of this for me. It means a lot.”
Madrigal sustained a broken arm, neck, and jaw, along with a head injury. Remarkably, she is reportedly making an impressive recovery. The driver of the truck remained at the scene and cooperated with the police. He was subsequently cited for failing to yield to a pedestrian, according to records. Police have stated that impairment was not a factor in the incident.
April Sago, who witnessed the collision and immediately went to Madrigal’s aid, recalled, “I saw the truck run her over and it was horrific.” Now connected to the Madrigal family due to this tragic event, Sago told 8 News Now, “I just held her until the ambulance came.” She added, “The family has invited me over and I’ve stayed with Chelsea at the hospital a bunch of times. We’ve gotten really close, and they are a very grateful family.”
