Father of young pedestrian killed on Belmont Street remembers 'bright light'

WORCESTER — The father of the 13-year-old girl who was fatally struck by a motor vehicle while crossing Belmont Street (Route 9) last week has made an impassioned plea, via GoFundMe, to help honor his daughter’s memory.

“On June 27th, 2024, my world shattered,” Jose Diaz states. “My beloved daughter, Gianna Rose Simoncini, was tragically struck by a motor vehicle in Worcester, MA, and despite our deepest hopes and prayers, she passed away.”

The girl was crossing the street when she got hit about 2:30 p.m. in the area of 370 Belmont St., between Plantation Street and Lake Avenue. She was rushed to nearby UMass Memorial Medical Center — University Campus, where she was pronounced deceased.

“Gianna was more than just my daughter; she was a bright light in our lives, a source of joy, and a soul full of dreams,” Diaz continues. “Her sudden departure has left us devastated and grappling with emotions beyond words.”

Diaz said his intentions on starting the fundraising account is that he can provide the “dignified farewell” she deserves. The funds raised will go toward covering the expenses of her funeral and memorial service, he said.

An initial investigation revealed that a Honda Acura was traveling west on Belmont Street when the girl was struck as she crossed the street, police said. There is no crosswalk near the scene of the crash.

The fatal has renewed concerns over pedestrian safety on a stretch of road near UMass Memorial Medical Center — University Campus. The section of the road lacks a crosswalk for a long stretch.