College Student Struck And Killed After Leaving Car To Go After Friend

WALKER (WWJ)  - Police have identified a Trenton woman struck and killed while trying to cross a road in west Michigan, as 19-year-old Jessie Winterholler.

Winterholler, a student at Grand Valley State University, was with two college students Friday evening, when a verbal argument ensued and the driver pulled off the road. One of the females got out of the vehicle and walked away. Winterholler, went after her on foot, and was hit by another vehicle.

Winterholler's parents say she was a talented artist with a love for anime... and that she wrote a popular blog on the topic.

"They have anime conventions ... this year she didn't get to go in costume and she went and people recognized her from her blog ... and flocked around her. She was just a sweet girl," said Carol Winterholler, her mom.

Jessie's mom said she was a wonderful young girl, who was very gifted.

"She had many friends and many talents - she was in band (and) she was an artist.

Rob Dunn went to high school with Winterholler and spoke with WWJ  about his friend.

"I was really shy in high school -- she was one of the only people that made me feel, not invisible," said Dunn.

A 49-year-old Holland woman driving the vehicle that struck Winterholler, was questioned and released.

Police indicate that neither alcohol nor speed were factors in the crash.

Read related story, HERE.