This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2010, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
A 13-year-old Orem Junior High School student died Thursday after a youngster driving her aunt's car ran over the girl as she waited for a bus.
About 7:45 a.m., Madison Mecum, of Orem, was standing on the sidewalk at 1340 N. 1200 West when she was struck, said Orem police Sgt. Craig Martinez.
"She took her aunt's car to drive to school," Martinez said of the 13-year-old behind the wheel. "She took a right-hand turn, and instead of stepping on the brake, she stepped on the gas."
Madison suffered "severe head injuries" and was taken to Utah Valley Hospital before being sent to Primary Children's Medical Center, where she died shortly after noon, Martinez said.
The mood at Orem Junior High School was somber as news of Madison's death circulated.
Some students cried as they came out of the building after classes.
Students who knew her, even in passing, described Madison as a happy, loving girl who didn't hate anybody.
"She would comfort you if you were down," said Caleb Madsen, a ninth-grader.
Allisa Lindsay, another ninth-grader, said Madison was nice to everyone she met.
Jezi Kalu, who briefly encountered Madison, said she was full of life. She said it wasn't fair that Madison had died.
"I wish it were me that got hit instead of her," said Jezi, an eighth-grader.
Students planned to wear pink, Madison's favorite color, to honor her today.
Orem police said they plan to file charges of negligent automobile homicide, driving without a license and unauthorized control of a vehicle against the driver.
The teen is expected to be charged as a juvenile. She was released into her parents' custody.
Friends and neighbors congregated at Madison's home, which was decorated for Halloween, bringing food and commiserating on the sidewalk.
In a family statement, they described Madison as "happy, enthusiastic, fun to be with and a blessing to all those whom she has come in contact with."
"The Mecum family recognizes that this is a tragedy for both families involved and offers their prayers and condolences to all those who have been involved or affected," the statement read.
Donations to cover funeral expenses may be made in Madison's name at any Zions Bank branch.