Lilia Vazquez Obituary, Death; – Authorities have confirmed the identity of the woman who tragically lost her life in a hit-and-run incident last week. Lilia Vazquez was remembered as “a cherished mother and wife, as well as a dedicated member of the Houston running community,” according to her friends.
The driver responsible for the collision fled the scene on Friday morning, and as of Monday afternoon, has not yet been apprehended. “She had been chosen as a local elite runner for the Houston Marathon scheduled for January, reflecting her dedication and enthusiasm. Over the past four years, she positively impacted numerous lives through her work at Baylor, where she committed herself to assisting patients in the physical therapy unit,” stated Erika Taugherm on a GoFundMe page established to raise funds for her funeral.
Vazquez was running along Westpark between Fondren Road and Gessner Road at approximately 6:45 a.m. on Friday when she was struck and killed. Investigators reported that both she and the vehicle were traveling westbound. Local residents have expressed concerns about the dangers posed to pedestrians due to the absence of sidewalks and limited shoulder space.
“This corner, especially — Jeanetta and Westpark — is particularly hazardous. It is a very dangerous intersection,” remarked business owner Estaban Anchia. Authorities emphasized the importance of exercising caution and wearing reflective gear while running in areas like Westpark, particularly during low-light conditions.
Vazquez’s family expressed their profound grief and are hopeful that someone will come forward with information that could lead to the identification of the individual responsible for her death.
Family members described Vazquez as a diligent mother who found fulfillment in marathon running and fostering the local running community. “I want to advocate for her as she would have for us — until the very end. I seek any answers. I know there were witnesses … so many people at that intersection. Someone must have seen something, and I am determined to spread the word about her, trusting that someone will step forward,” said Vazquez’s daughter, Mariana.
