The identity of 20-year-old student Elizabeth “Ellie” Sims, who died in a hit-and-run accident near the FSU campus, has been disclosed by the university. The tragedy, which happened close to the corner of Lorene and Pensacola streets, has shocked and devastated the university community. The accident occurred when Ellie was a sorority Alpha Chi Omega member. On many of their social media accounts, Alpha Chi Omega Sorority members have sent messages of love and sadness for Sims.
Alpha Chi Omega Sorority’s Beta Eta Chapter has taken to social media to share their condolences and memories of Sims. There has been an immediate call from parents and kids for more pedestrian safety measures after this tragedy, which is the first pedestrian death of the year.
In less than 24 hours, a petition on Change.org has collected over 16,000 signatures, calling for installing a traffic signal at the crossing on Pensacola Street near FSU’s campus. The goal is to make the area safer for pedestrians. Everything surrounding FSU is within walking distance, and many students depend on foot transit, so it’s essential to be well-informed about driving in a densely pedestrian region.
In light of the current crisis, Florida State University President Richard McCullough has asked that all university community members seek solace in the counseling services available on campus. The tragic death has prompted many to express their deepest sympathies by leaving flowers, tea light candles, and stuffed plushies at the foot of a crossing sign near the accident scene.
Tallahassee Police Department officials responded to Facebook commentators’ calls for further charges by saying that the charges brought were decided after consulting with the State Attorney’s office and were by Florida law. The agency has promised to keep the public apprised of new accusations and reiterated that their investigation is far from over.
