KILLEEN, Texas — Killeen police identified the young woman killed Friday morning who crashed into the "Welcome to Killeen" sign as 18-year-old Julianna Allen.
Police said it happened a little before 4 a.m. The first officers arrived to find a white car on its roof and on fire.
An investigation found that Allen was distracted by her cell phone while driving, police said.
Allen's sister, Megan Cook, told 6 News she was not texting and driving.
"She was on the phone but her phone was down not in her hands," Cook said.
Allen drove off the road and as the car's wheels dug into the wet ground, the car slid sideways leading it to crash into the "Welcome to Killeen" sign, according to police.
6 News reached out to Allen's two sisters through Facebook.
Lauren Tilton said, "My sister was young and beautiful and had so much going for her. I lost my best friend and my kids lost their Aunt. She will be missed forever."
Cook said she had just gone to her prom the previous weekend. She attended Harker Heights High School, according to the Killeen Independent School District.
"She just wanted her 'princess' night," Cook said. "I'm glad she was able to get that night. She was my sister and best friend in one. She had her whole life ahead of her. Anytime I ever was around her she was always trying to make sure I was okay and if I needed anything. She was so helpful. She was such a goofy person."
Cook said Allen's boyfriend was going to ask for her dad's blessing to propose marriage this weekend.
"Her life was about to start," Cook said. "My heart is shattered our lives have changed forever."
Killeen ISD later released a statement that reads in part, "Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and the entire Harker Heights Knights family."
Killeen ISD said the school's crisis support team was on campus and will continue to be available for remote learners.
Allen was pronounced dead shortly before 5:30 a.m. by a justice of the peace.