A community is mourning the loss of a mother and son who said as they were walking to school Wednesday morning.
Tucson Police say a female driver hit and killed 37-year-old, Anna Mentzer, and her 7-year old son, Ethan Mentzer on Mountain View and Pima.
The brother and son of the victims, Eli Mentzer, says he didn't feel well Wednesday, so he stayed home.
At 5: I spoke with the family of Anna & Ethan Mentzer. Uncle Clem, Eli & Anna's best friend shared memories & photos with me. pic.twitter.com/lB12JekK3P
— Jennifer Martinez (@Jennymartineztv) October 12, 2017
"I didn't feel very good in the morning, and my mom took my temperature."
He says, his brother Ethan tried to make him feel better.
That was the last time he saw his baby brother and his mother.
"It's just a tragic loss, it's horrible, and I wish we could change it but we can't," says Anna's Best friend, Amanda Campion.
Eli says, "my brother was my best friend."
Clem Mentzer, Anna's older brother, says his sister and nephew were free spirits.
"My sister was a very kind, caring and compassionate person. She had a way about her," says Clem.
Clem has been the father figure to the boys since they were young. After he heard the horrific news, he says, "It's almost like a natural progression of things that I would take over raising Eli...I just didn't want it to be under these circumstances."
While they can't turn back the hands of time and bring their family home again - they have each other.
"She's going to leave such a big hole in so many peoples lives, especially mine and Elis," says Clem.
No charges have been filed against the female driver. Tucson Police Department says there were no signs of impairment.
If you would like to donate to the family, click here.
