North Raleigh Today

After Hailey Brooks’ family had a few days to grieve, they issued a statement about their daughter, who died during the Raleigh Christmas Parade after a parade vehicle struck her.

“Hailey’s tragic death has left our family heartbroken and in shock,” the family said in a statement, as reported by WRAL News.  “She had a kind and humble heart that was always focused on caring for the needs of those around her. Even in her final hours, Hailey showed her loving and giving spirit to the younger children who were with her in the parade. We greatly appreciate the love and support that the community has shown us, and we plan to share more about Hailey’s special life soon. At this time, we ask that the media respect our family’s need for privacy while we grieve the loss of our dear Hailey.”

Brooks, 11, was the oldest of three siblings. The director of Carolina Charter Academy said Brooks was a fourth-grade student there last year, though it is not clear which school she was attending currently.

"She is not a current student at CCA," a letter to parents said, according to WRAL News. “However, once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal, and we know many of your children may have known Hailey and been impacted by her passing,"

Brooks was a dance student, having regularly attended Main Street Studio in Fuquay-Varina. Clogging was her favorite dance style. Her favorite food was steak, WRAL reported.

Brooks had been a dancer performing in the parade at the time she was struck by a pickup truck that was also part of the parade. The driver appeared to have lost control of the vehicle and has been charged with several misdemeanors since the incident.

A family friend has posted a GoFundMe fundraiser to raise money for the family of Hailey Brooks.