Grandma killed in crash had 'years left to give'
Gloria Stephenson, from Silksworth, Sunderland, died on the city's Burdon Road on 16 May.
Northumbria Police said it was understood she was using a zebra crossing when she was struck by a black Sur-Ron electric motorcycle. An 18-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released on bail.
In a statement, Ms Stephenson's family said: "We are devastated at the loss of our vibrant, active, beautiful and intelligent mam, grandma, mother-in-law and great grandma."
They also thanked the people who supported Ms Stephenson and her daughter and grandson at the scene.
"The press described her as an 'elderly lady', however we want to make absolutely clear that our mam was full of life," the family said.
"She was active, fit, healthy and had years left to give her love and share her energy and zest for life with everyone who knew her."
Northumbria Police said the rider initially drove away from the scene, but was arrested later on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and the bike was recovered.
He remains on bail while the investigation continues and Sgt Russell Surrey urged any witnesses to contact the force.
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Elderly woman struck and killed in hit-and-run
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New York Post
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Miami Herald
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Emergency protocols were immediately activated, with staff and volunteers rushing Rocky to the facility's on-site clinic where they attempted to reduce his body temperature through IV fluid treatment. When these interventions failed to stabilize the dog, he was transferred to the main Doral shelter for advanced veterinary care, but medical staff were ultimately unable to save him. Recent facility tours by 7News revealed approximately a dozen industrial fans scattered throughout the Medley location, with kennel thermometers previously photographed showing temperatures reaching 91 degrees. Former volunteers criticized the fan placement to the news outlet, noting that some units blow air horizontally into concrete walls rather than providing direct cooling relief to animals. Additional cooling measures include continuous cold-water access, shaded play areas for exercise, and small pools for animal use. Miami-Dade Animal Services (@adoptmiamipets) wrote in a statement on Instagram last Saturday: "We are aware of the circulating concerns and discussions regarding the tragic recent loss of Rocky (#A2684435), and as always, we are committed to transparency and providing clarity. Our priority is to keep our community informed, and it is important to us that you hear the full details of what transpired to assure you that we are handling this with the same care and respect that we provide for all the animals in our care." "Today, our hearts are heavy as we share the loss of Rocky, a dog who had been with us at our Medley shelter since May. This morning, Rocky was bright and alert-even playfully jumping around in his kennel. He was housed inside the shelter where large fans run 24/7 to keep air circulating for the comfort of our pets. He and the other pets have access to play pools as well." The agency continued: "Around noon, a diligent volunteer observed Rocky lying down in his kennel with vomit present and promptly notified the staff. He was quickly assessed and, though still alert and able to walk, he collapsed near the play yard. Medical staff responded immediately, administering fluids and swiftly transferring him to our Doral clinic for more extensive care." "Upon examination, our veterinarians determined that Rocky was gravely ill and made the compassionate decision to humanely euthanize him to prevent further suffering. While we are still uncertain about the exact cause of this sudden condition, we have sent samples to the lab for analysis in hopes of uncovering more information." The animal service concluded the statement: "We want to assure our community that Rocky was never alone during this difficult time. From the moment a volunteer noticed something was wrong, to his final moments in the care of our veterinary team, he was surrounded by people who cared deeply and acted quickly to help him. In the end, he was met with kindness, love, and dignity. He was not just another animal in our care - he was a living being who touched the hearts of many." "We remain committed to the safety and well-being of every animal entrusted to us. The loss of Rocky is a painful reminder of how vulnerable these animals can be, and why we need our community's continued support to help us find them loving homes." A concerned Instagram user named @erinsharoni asked the agency: "Can you address the allegations that there are only 3 working fans in the Medley facility when just one year ago with the community raised $15,000 to purchase seven fans from @bigassfans that are now nowhere to be found?" Miami-Dade Animal Services continues investigating Rocky's death while awaiting laboratory results to determine the exact cause. Related Articles Major IRS Changes Coming for Business Tax Audits in 2025Dangerous Heat Wave Threatens Over 30 Million Across SoutheastKristin Cabot Pictured for First Time Since Kiss Cam, Without Wedding RingCould South Park's Trump Attack Cost Paramount? Legal Experts Weigh In 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
