Mariyah Ford, a 20-year-old aspiring phlebotomist from Sauk Village, died in a hit-and-run crash on Illinois Route 394 in Lynwood. Family members are grieving the loss of a caring and determined young woman who aspired to a future in healthcare.
Ford spent her final weekend with her aunt, Tanisha Dennis. They attended hair and nail appointments together and prepared for a Thornridge High School reunion event. Following an after-party, their vehicle ran out of fuel. While walking to a nearby gas station, Ford was struck by a vehicle, according to Tanisha.
Tanisha Dennis recounted the tragic incident, saying she is haunted by the sound of Ford’s body being hit. “I keep hearing it,” she said. Christina Dennis, Ford’s mother, hopes sharing her daughter’s story will aid the Illinois State Police investigation. “She was my first baby, the original one,” Christina expressed. She urged the driver involved to come forward.
The crash occurred early Monday. Illinois State Police responded and transported Ford to Advocate Christ Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead by 3 a.m. The interstate was temporarily closed for the investigation, which remains ongoing.
The Cook County medical examiner confirmed Ford died of multiple blunt force injuries. Ford’s birthday was on Sunday, and she and Tanisha had planned a month of celebrations. The two shared a close bond, living together and often surprising each other with gifts and thoughtful acts.
Plans to visit Navy Pier and enjoy the city skyline have been replaced with grieving and organizing memorials. Tanisha had looked forward to renting a boat for the occasion. Ford loved being on the water and had a passion for organizing events, including a planned “colorful picnic” for family and friends where attire and items matched in color.
Described as bubbly and outgoing, Ford rarely showed anger, except when her brothers disturbed her meticulously arranged makeup and skincare sets. Despite her playful nature, she was serious about becoming a phlebotomist. Ford excelled at Thornridge High School, achieving high grades and participating in a vocational program in Olympia Fields.
Her younger brother, Tommy Dennis, is trying to emulate her example. “I try to clean more because I know I can’t do better than Mariyah,” he said. “She did so well with her grades and had big plans. That’s gone now.”