Hit-and-run driver kills homeless mom of 4

UPLAND, Calif. -- A woman who went from homecoming queen in her youth to living on the streets was a victim of a hit-and-run crash.

Kristen Pretzer did not get any last goodbyes with her four children. Last week the 47-year-old was struck and killed while walking near the intersection of 8th Street and Mountain Avenue in Upland.

Kassidy Fierro received the news about her mother just days after she had become a new mom herself.

"It's hurtful to know that somebody hit her and didn't stop and at least tried to render aid. What if they could have saved her life and helped her?" Fierro said.

Fierro said her mother was living at a homeless encampment at the time of her death. She added her mother had fallen into a life of addiction.

At a vigil not long after Pretzer's death, her family and friends gathered to remember her and they described her as a sparkly blonde.

"Even when she'd fallen on hard times, she still had a good spirit. Everybody that came out to the vigil last week on Friday had nothing but great things to say about her even in this difficult time," Fierro said.

Upland police are investigating the hit-and-run. Authorities said whoever struck Pretzer left evidence behind at the scene.

Upland police Lt. Clifford Matthews said that traffic investigators identified car parts in the roadway that belonged to a 2012 to 2015 Honda Accord, possibly dark colored that may have damage to the grill and headlights.

The Pretzer family said they want justice for Kristen's death and hope the driver will step up to take responsibility for their actions.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Upland Police Department at (909) 946-7624.