A retired pastor in Los Angeles, USA has been killed by a hit-and-run driver while she was delivering presents to needy children in the area.
Trina Newman-Townsed was a retired minister and active member of the South Los Angeles community. She was known for her work with underprivileged children and was a foster mother to six children.
The 62-year-old had just dropped off a load of gifts at a community centre on Christmas eve when she was struck by the driver. She had just stepped off the pavement and was getting into the car with four of her children.
Although emergency services tried to save her, she was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the accident.
“I was trying to run through the yellow tape to her. I just couldn’t believe what I heard over the phone,” the victim’s daughter Amarrie Nicasio, told KTLA, a news outlet.
“She helped everybody, she gave back to the community in every way she could. She’s a good person. Whoever did this needs to step up and turn yourself in,” Nicasio continued.
“Everybody is heart-stricken for this moment,” said Pastor Kenneth Pitchford, who was friend of Newman's. He told KTLA: “Words can't describe what she means to this community.”
Many people have to taken to Towsend's Facebook profile to pay tribute to her.
"This is so shocking to me. I know that you can't read this but I want to let you know how much that I love you and that you'll be missed dearly. This was such a beautiful post and I'm at a total loss right now. Not even a year has gone by since you helped me with the tremendous loss of my little brother, and now this. To know you, is to love you. Your infectious spirit could bring anyone out of their bad mood. To have people like you is what life is all about, LOVE. Rest in heaven," De'Andre Wilson wrote.
"When I think of you all I can think about is love I'm going to miss you my sister but I will see you in my dreams," another Facebook user wrote.
A candle-lit vigil to pay tribute to her life will take place on 29th December.
Police are currently investigating the incident and are asking anyone with information to contact them.