A teenager in Long Island, New York, died earlier this month after reportedly jumping in front of an oncoming SUV to save his sister’s life.
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Tyler Phillips, who died just days after his 13th birthday, is being hailed a hero by friends and loved ones who are mourning such a monumental loss.
The accident unfolded Oct. 12, when he and his sister, Krystal Randolph, also 13, were walking home.
A witness said a Chevrolet Equinox struck Randolph first, and Phillips reportedly immediately tried to jump and grab his sister. That’s when the SUV allegedly hit him before purportedly speeding away and fleeing the scene. Phillips later died, according to WNBC-TV.
“They tried to resuscitate him and he was gone for 30 minutes,” Phillips’ mom, Desari Mac, told the outlet. “His vertebrate and his skull got separated, and he’s got no brain function. … He’s gone.”
Amid the pain and suffering, the family is acknowledging the boy’s brave actions before his death.
“He saved my life,” Randolph said.
Philips’ mom added, “He will always be a hero.”
The kids had been living in a shelter for a year. The teens were on their way back home when the tragedy unfolded — a shocking event that has rocked the community.
William Paca Middle School in Mastic Beach, New York, where both Phillips and Randolph attend, released a statement offering condolences and heartbreak.
“While we are thankful that Krystal is expected to survive, we are heartbroken to learn of Tyler’s passing,” the community statement read. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Tyler’s family and friends at this time.”
The family is pleading with the driver to come forward, and police are offering a $5,000 reward for information on the person responsible.
Pray for the family mourning during this difficult time.
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