A 13-year-old high-school student was hit and killed by an off-duty state trooper at about 8:30 p.m. She was spending time with friends in a yearly scavenger hunt put on by children in the school play. According to her classmate, as Terry Difalco crossed Central Avenue in Westfield, New Jersey, the trooper’s service vehicle hit her because a box was at someone’s house on Central Avenue.

Terry was described by Superintendent Dr. Margaret Dolan as a bright girl who was creative and a good writer. Her Girl Scout leader, Kathy Jensen, depicted her as the perfect model child and a beautiful person. A friend of the victim said Terry was very interested in theater, art and music, and was a good singer. She was very close to her friends in the drama club.
Grief counselors were at the school to help faculty, staff and other students cope with the sudden tragedy. The officer remained at the scene, and has not faced any charges.

If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident because of the negligence of another motorist, call the personal injury attorneys at Proner and Proner. They may conduct an investigation, and obtain damages for your loss, including medical expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering.