Residents blasted the Encinitas City Council on Wednesday night for not declaring a state of emergency following the death of 12-year-old Emery Chalekian.
The council intended to declare a road safety crisis before to the summer break. However, it wasn’t even on the agenda for the initial meeting back on Wednesday.
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The community and family were devastated by the car accident on Encinitas Boulevard in April of last year, which claimed Emery’s life as a bystander.
Mother Bridget Chalekian stated, “We think that her life and the way it ended should not be forgotten.”
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Previous coverage:
Parents of 12-year-old girl killed in Encinitas crash push for safer streets
12-year-old girl dies after being hit by car in Encinitas: SDSO
Bridget Chalekian and her father, John Chalekian, attended the Encinitas City Council on Wednesday night along with other people. The crowd was standing room only, and there were a ton of yellow “Emery” shirts.
The safety emergency declaration wasn’t even on the agenda, but 18 people signed up to speak during public comments.
One neighbor spoke from the platform, “I am strongly and unequivocally requesting that you declare a local roadway state of emergency in the city of Encinitas.”
Those closest to Emery, such as her old teacher, found it frustrating.
We have the power to alter how people pass by by altering the roadways they use,” she stated.
One of the dance students said. While returning to the studio, Emery was slain while crossing Encinitas Boulevard.
My friends have displayed expressions that nobody our age should ever have to experience. It’s time for us to use this emotion to bring about change,” she stated.
John Chalekian stated, “We are members of the community.” “This terrible incident has rocked our neighborhood. Seeing it not implemented is a little upsetting.
Before the meeting, NBC 7 asked a municipal spokesman if the state of emergency was canceled due to the possibility of a lawsuit, but they haven’t heard anything yet.
The Chalekians and their lawyer submitted a letter of intent to sue the city of Encinitas in the middle of summer. Six damages are listed. The family is requesting more than the $35,000 typical civil suite.
Among the damages are the following: Bridget and John Chalekian’s severe emotional misery, sadness, and agony; the loss of care, comfort, companionship, love, and affection; and the loss of guidance, nurturing, and shared experiences with their kid.
Although it might not result in a lawsuit, the family claims it’s a necessary step in the process.
John Chalekian stated, “This is not about our family bringing a case; it’s about public safety.
The Chalekians thought that a road safety emergency would prompt prompt action and increase funding for at least road signs. That hope has not yet been fulfilled.
