The Phoenix community continues to seek answers in the hit-and-run death of Paulina Vargas-Ochoa, the 16-year-old struck by a vehicle last year. Despite the passage of more than a year since the fatal event, the driver responsible remains unidentified and at large. According to a report by ABC15, the incident occurred on June 9, 2023, near 27th Avenue and Osborn Road when Ochoa was hit by a southbound Black Chrysler 300.
Surveillance video captured – the Chrysler 300 pulling into a parking lot before fleeing the scene. Yet this clue has not brought officials any closer to identifying the individual behind the wheel. Amid ongoing investigations, Phoenix police have reiterated their call for any information that might lead to resolution. They are urging those who may know something to step forward and contact police or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS. Anabel Ochoa, Paulina's mother, expressed her heartache in an interview with AZFamily, saying "Every day is the same for me. Each day is the same since she's been gone."
A somber memorial at 27th Avenue near Indian School Road marks the spot where Ochoa's dreams were cut short. Anabel Ochoa has been quoted saying, "Apart from the pain, there's also anguish and despair because we don’t have answers to what happened." Details from AZFamily's coverage reveal the depth of the family's loss. Ochoa was close to her 17th birthday.
Anabel Ochoa endures the heartache, finding strength in her conviction that justice will prevail “It would be pointless to ask the driver to turn themselves in because they haven’t done so. However, I believe in justice and there’s a divine justice too. I have faith. Maybe it won’t happen now but in the future, something will happen. That’s why I still believe there will be justice,” she told AZFamily.
Authorities remain steadfast in their resolve to find those responsible, offering a reward up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with relevant input can contact Silent Witness anonymously.
