The jury in Dr. James Corasanti's civil trial heard emotional testimony about Alix Rice in State Supreme Court in Buffalo on Tuesday.
Alix Rice's former teacher Joseph Finucane said Rice was "unique" and "a great painter." Finucane says she was not a scholar; but she chose "to get a GED over no degree at all."
Choking back tears he said "she could have done anything...if she wanted to."
Corasanti was convicted of Driving While Intoxicated in the hit and run crash that killed Rice. Her parents are suing Corasanti for her wrongful death, her pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
Their legal team will call two Amherst Police Officers today to testify about the accident investigation.
During his opening remarks Monday, Defense Attorney Richard Sullivan said the road was dark, Rice was not wearing reflective clothing, and Corasanti never intended to harm anyone. Sullivan says it was a tragic accident.