Ontario Mother Of 3 Dies After Saving Daughter In Pedestrian Crash

ONTARIO (CBSLA.com) — A 41-year-old mother of three that was struck by a motorist in a crosswalk has died.

According to the San Bernardino County Cororner, Juana Elias of Ontario was pronounced dead at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center on Thursday as a result of her injuries.

CBS2's Crystal Cruz spoke with Alejandra Ramirez Friday, who now acts as the sole provider for her family due to the loss of her mother. Her father passed away 10 years ago.

Ramirez, 17, described her mother as a very religious woman who would do anything for her kids.

"I know for a fact my mother wouldn't want us to cry," said Ramirez. "She always told us to be united, so that's what we are going to do. We are going to make my mom proud."

Authorities said just after 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 911 calls were received regarding a 2006 Chevrolet Impala that had struck a pedestrian near the intersection of Holt Boulevard and Laurel Avenue.

Once on scene, officials said they found Elias down in the roadway and her daughter nearby who was not seriously injured.

Ramirez was told by authorities that her mother saved the life of her little sister in the crosswalk.

"My mom pushed my sister out of the way," Ramirez said. "My mom was unfortunately hit by the car. My sister is okay."

Security video showed Elias and her teenage daughter crossing the street while heading to the post office.

When Elias saw the car barreling towards them, she pushed her daughter out of the way.

In response to the crash, many residents urged city leaders to install a stop sign in the intersection.

City Manager Al Boling responded to the request, saying in a statement, "As with all accidents of this nature, the city reviews all existing traffic control elements for consistency with the California manual on uniform traffic control devices, which sets forth statewide guidelines and standards for the design, application, placement, installation and maintenance of traffic control devices."

"The city strives to maintain its roadways consistent with those guidelines and standards in order to provide a baseline level of resonable safety when its roads are used with due care," Boling added.

According to police, the 25-year-old driver from Upland was not impaired and has yet to be arrested.

A report, however, is expected to be sent to the district attorney's office once the investigation is completed.