Vehicle fatally strikes 6-year-old girl in Delaware County, vigil planned

UPPER DARBY, Pa. (FOX 29) - A young girl hit and killed while crossing the street with her family and her parents are devastated.

Police are waiting for the results of blood alcohol tests on the driver involved in the horrific accident that claimed the life of a six-year-old child. The little girl's parents, now trying to find a way through their unimaginable grief.

The surveillance video shows the aftermath of the horror on Marshall Road in Upper Darby.

Frantic efforts to help a six-year-old child run over by a large SUV as her family tried to cross the street Friday afternoon.

"As the little girl comes, the driver never saw her because he's way up high. The little six-year-old, he runs her over," explained Superintendent Michael Chitwood, of the Upper Darby Police.

Police say the driver was trying to back up to park in front of a bar on the busy stretch of road.

"The ladies from the bar came out and they tried to give CPR and we knew it was too late from what we saw. Not going to describe it. It was horrible," said Mariella.

"They were my customers. I feel so bad for the family because they just came here from Honduras four months ago," Angela Gonzalez explained.

The parents of Jennifer Portillo are in shock. Their sweet six-year-old was in first grade and loved school. She was their only child. They were working when the tragedy happened. Jennifer's aunt had taken her out for the afternoon.

"The saddest was hearing the family, the cries. Imagine seeing your daughter just lying there," Mariella added.

"The driver admitted going to two bars, Rudy's Bar and then the Waterford Tavern and then he came back," Superintendent Chitwood said.

Police questioned the driver on the scene and at headquarters and then ordered a blood alcohol test.

"Once we get the analysis back on the blood, we'll be able to determine whether there will be charges filed against him," Superintendent Chitwood added.

A pink sign appeared on the window of Rudy's Tavern that stated plans for a vigil Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m. Those attending are encouraged to bring pink balloons, teddy bears and candles.

As of Sunday morning, some mourners have already placed items on the sidewalk in Jennifer's remembrance.

To help the family with funeral expenses, a GoFundMe account has been set up here.