Family Shares The Story Of Woman Killed In Turner Turnpike Crash

A young woman who died in a crash on the Turner Turnpike is being remembered as a bright spirit who cared deeply for her friends.

Troopers said the driver rear-ended a semi that was parked on the shoulder over the weekend. Hailey Taylor was only 21 and her sister said Hailey was always there for others. She said her life was taken way too soon. Emma-Lee Cowan said her little sister Hailey Taylor always made her voice heard.

Related Story: 21-Year-Old Woman Killed In Crash On Turner Turnpike, OHP Says

"She is so loud, you will hear the girl from across the house, across the field.”

Emma-lee said Hailey grew up with a learning disability but eventually discovered her independence. Hailey had a passion for sports and she loved her job helping disabled people.

"It didn't matter who you were, where you came, from she just loved you so much.”

Hailey was driving east on the Turner Turnpike Sunday morning when she veered off the road and hit a semi parked on the shoulder.

"Hundreds of people have reached out saying we’re here for you," Cowan said.

Emma-lee said there was some confusion and she didn’t know about the crash for a while after and thought her sister was missing.

OHP Lieutenant Mark Southall says notifying families is troopers' highest concern.

“We hold it to such a high priority," said Lt. Southall. "We are sending troopers to the residence of next-of-kin as soon as possible to make the most professional notification we can possibly make."

Emma-lee said everyone could learn something from Hailey. She was an advocate for mental health, a friend to all, and Emma-lee said it's a reminder to hold your loved ones close.

“Just take five more seconds to talk to your friend, tell them you love them, tell them everything will be okay.”

Troopers are still investigating the crash. Emma-lee has set up a fundraiser to help plan Hailey's funeral.