Family Mourns Future Phlebotomist Killed in Hit-and-Run

The family of Mariyah Ford, a 20-year-old from Sauk Village, is grieving after Ford was killed in a hit-and-run accident on Illinois Route 394 in Lynwood. Known for her caring nature and aspiration to become a phlebotomist, Ford spent her final weekend with her aunt, Tanisha Dennis. The duo attended hair and nail appointments together as they prepared for a Thornridge High School reunion event that Sunday.

Tanisha Dennis fondly recalled how Ford chose her outfit for the weekend. Their vehicle ran out of fuel as they drove home from a reunion after-party, prompting them to walk to a nearby gas station. Ford was struck during this walk. Tanisha remains haunted by the sound of the accident. ‘I keep hearing it,’ she shared.

Christina Dennis, Ford’s mother, hopes sharing her daughter’s story will assist the Illinois State Police investigation. ‘There ain’t nothing like her — she was my first baby,’ Christina said, emphasizing Ford’s unwavering support and spirit.

A collage of photos by family members celebrates Ford’s life. State police investigated the crash early Monday. Ford succumbed to her injuries by 3 a.m. at Advocate Christ Medical Center. The interstate was temporarily closed but reopened around 4 a.m. The investigation continues, with police withholding suspect information to preserve its integrity. The Cook County medical examiner reported Ford died from multiple blunt force injuries.

Ford planned to celebrate her birthday on Sunday with her aunt. The pair lived together and engaged in joyful surprises for one another. Planned events like a Navy Pier ferris wheel ride have now turned into preparation for memorial services. Tanisha mentioned how Ford dreamed of seeing the city skyline from a boat at night. ‘She wanted to see the lights better,’ Tanisha said.

Known for her cheerful personality, Ford rarely got upset, except when her brothers disrupted her carefully arranged makeup. Despite her playful side, she was serious about her phlebotomy career, excelling academically at Thornridge and starting a vocational program in Olympia Fields.

Her younger brother, Tommy Dennis, aspires to honor her legacy. ‘I try to clean more because I know I can’t do better than Mariyah,’ he admitted, acknowledging his sister’s meticulous nature and achievements. Her tragic and premature departure leaves a void in her family’s life.