According to police, around 4:45 a.m. Brijette Basden pulled over on the left side of the interstate near Page Road to switch driving duties with her sister, Asrael Basden.
While both sisters were standing outside the Ford Fusion, which was partially in the roadway, person driving aToyota Camry hit the sisters who were standing near their car, Durham police said.
Brijette Basden, 24 died from her injuries. Her sister Asrael Basden was taken to a hospital. No one else was hurt.
ABC11 News has confirmed that Brijette was a Kindergarten teacher at Sallie B. Howard School in Wilson. The school sent this statement:
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Ms. Brijette Basden, one of our Kindergarten teachers. Though she was new to our school community, Ms. Basden quickly made a lasting impact through her kindness, gentle spirit, and passion for educating young children. She brought joy and dedication to her classroom every day and was a valued member of our Kindergarten team. Our staff and students are heartbroken by this loss and will miss her dearly."
She was a Shaw University grad and was a member of theTrack and Field team, the coach confirmed to ABC11.
Micah Wright is coping with the loss of her beloved friend, Brijette Basden. Wright was also a member of the track and field team alongside Basden.
"She was just so, so kind. So nice. Just loved being around her and with her."
She said the two just saw each other at Shaw's homecoming and then she got calls from her friends telling her that Basden died overnight.
"It just feels so unreal. Like Brijette, of all people, I just can't process it."
Shaw University posted this remembrance to Brijette on their Facebook page
"The Shaw University Athletics family is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of former cross country and track & field standout Brijette Basden.
Brijette's spirit, determination, and bright energy left a lasting impact on all who knew her both on and off the track. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, teammates, and loved ones during this difficult time. Once a Bear, always a Bear. "