Tuesday, March 27, 2007 - We visited with those who knew Laura Cristina Velarde a few years back when she was a student at Loretto Academy. They all describe her as a bright young woman who had a promising future. Police say the crash happened just before 1:00 a.m. on the 5700 block of Montoya. Investigators say Velarde was going too fast and missed a curve, losing control of her Jeep. The SUV crashed into a light pole, killing her instantly.

Christy, as many at Loretto called her, was a natural leader. Teachers and counselors say she always had a smile and was genuinely concerned for others.