Classmates of Teen Struck in Crosswalk Collecting Donations for Medical Bills

It's been two weeks since 17-year-old Crystal Morales was struck by an SUV near Newport Harbor High School, leaving her in a medically induced coma. Today, some of her classmates are raising money for her mounting medical bills.

Donations are being collected from noon to 8 p.m. at the restaurant in Newport Beach, and tomorrow from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ralphs off Westcliff Drive. Morales, a senior at Newport Harbor High, suffered head trauma, internal bleeding and brain swelling ain a crosswalk on Dec. 6.

One of Crystal's classmates has also created the Help Crystal Foundation Facebook page. Friends and family of the teen have been leaving well wishes and expressing their desire to help raise money.

The driver of the Chevy, Marnie J. Lippincott, 38, on charges of driving under the influence causing bodily injury, with a sentencing enhancement for causing brain injury, according to the District Attorney's office. She also faces a misdemeanor charge of driving without a license. Lippincott is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday to enter her plea.

At last week's Newport Beach City Council meeting, Councilman Rush Hill said city staff is working with school officials to improve traffic safety near . The proposed safety upgrades include installing flashing lights and adding locations for student drop-offs and pickup. Hill said educational programs would also help keep students safe.

Donations can also be made at Bank of America and directed to the Crystal Morales account.