Tragic Loss of Mariyah Ford
Mariyah Ford, a 20-year-old from Sauk Village, was tragically killed in a hit-and-run on Illinois Route 394 in Lynwood. Ford, who was aspiring to become a phlebotomist, spent her last weekend with her aunt, Tanisha Dennis. The two shared joint hair and nail appointments as they prepared for a Thornridge High School class reunion.
Heartbreaking Incident
While returning home from a reunion after-party, their car ran out of fuel. The two began walking to a nearby gas station when Ford was struck by a vehicle. Tanisha, still haunted by the incident, shared how the sound of her niece being hit remains vivid in her mind. “It makes it worse because I hear the falling,” she expressed.
Call for Justice
Ford’s mother, Christina Dennis, hopes that sharing her daughter’s story will aid the ongoing investigation by the Illinois State Police. “There ain’t nothing like her — she was my first baby,” Christina shared, urging the driver responsible to come forward.
Police closed the interstate following the accident, reopening it shortly after. Ford was taken to Advocate Christ Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead. The Cook County medical examiner reported she died from multiple blunt force injuries.
Memories and Plans
Ford had celebrated her birthday that Sunday, with plans for events throughout August. She and her aunt, who lived together, engaged in a “war of surprises,” trying to outdo each other with gifts. These planned celebrations have now turned into preparations for memorial services. Tanisha had been particularly excited to rent a boat to view the city’s nighttime skyline, something they had eagerly anticipated.
Determined Future and Family Bonds
Known for her outgoing personality, Ford had a passion for Disney movies and animals. Despite these youthful interests, she was committed to her career goals, excelling in her studies at Thornridge and beginning a vocational program in Olympia Fields.
Her younger brother, Tommy Dennis, aims to honor her memory by following her diligent example. “I try to clean more because I know I can’t do better than Mariyah. She had big plans for when she got older, and that got took away from her,” he reflected.