The family of the girl killed during Saturday’s Raleigh Christmas parade issued a statement Tuesday.
Hailey Brooks' family issued the following statement:
Other WRAL Top Stories
“Hailey’s tragic death has left our family heartbroken and in shock. She had a kind and humble heart that was always focused on caring for the needs of those around her. Even in her final hours, Hailey showed her loving and giving spirit to the younger children who were with her in the parade.
“We greatly appreciate the love and support that the community has shown us, and we plan to share more about Hailey’s special life soon. At this time, we ask that the media respect our family’s need for privacy while we grieve the loss of our dear Hailey.”
On Tuesday, WRAL News learned Brooks was the oldest of three siblings.
The director of Carolina Charter Academy said Brooks was a fourth-grade student there last year. It is not clear what school she was attending this year.
"She is not a current student at CCA. However, once a Cardinal always a Cardinal, and we know many of your children may have known Hailey and been impacted by her passing," a letter to parents read.
WRAL News also learned Brooks used to dance at Main Street Studio in Fuquay-Varina. A post shows she loved steak, and her favorite style of dance was clogging.
This is a developing story. Refresh the page for the latest information.