Friends and family gathered Wednesday in Chicago to mourn a Schaumburg teen killed over the weekend in an apparent hit-and-run crash.
Funeral services for Mikias T. Tibebu, 18, began at noon at Drake and Son Funeral Home, 5303 N. Western Ave., in Chicago. Carloads of students arrived for the funeral from Schaumburg High School, excused for the day under the tragic circumstances.
"It's very sad. His father misses him a lot," family friend Adam Haileu said.
"I feel like we'll never really be used to not having him around," one student said.
As Tibebu's family mourned, the investigation into his death continues.
According to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s office, Tibebu was walking near Schaumburg Road and Branchwood Drive around 12:30 a.m. Saturday when he was hit by a vehicle that drove off. Police said there are no witness and no suspects in custody.
Tibebu was born in Ethiopia and moved to the U.S. as a child. At Schaumburg High School he's known as a standout track and cross-country athlete and a stellar student.
"I am writing with great sadness to report the loss of one of our students," stated Schaumburg High School Principal Tim Little in a letter to parents on Saturday. "Our thoughts and sympathies are with the student's family at this difficult time."
“A beloved friend and athlete, Mikias was also a committed member of the cross-country and track teams. Our thoughts and sympathies are with Mikias’ family and friends during this difficult time,” Little said.
A memorial service is planned at 7 p.m. Thursday in the main gym at Schaumburg High School, 1100 W. Schaumburg Road, in Schaumburg.
