Man watches bride-to-be die in front of him hours before he going to propose

McKayla Harshaw, 24, was killed in a crash involving seven cars and two trucks on the I-75 in Atlanta, Georgia, last month when her car - driven by partner Andrew Perez -was sent flying

A “beautiful and thriving” young woman was killed in a horror multi-vehicle car crash hours before her fiancé was due to propose to her.

McKayla Harshaw, 24, was being driven by their boyfriend Andrew Perez when two trucks crashed into a stalled car, causing a chain reaction which sent the couple flying. McKayla, a nanny who “loved” working with children, was hours away from being proposed to when the crash, involving seven cars and two trucks, happened.

She was the only fatality in the accident on the I-75 in Atlanta while her partner was sent to the hospital with a fractured skull and a broken neck and back. He is currently fighting for his life in hospital. In a tribute, McKayla’s family said: “McKayla was a wonderful daughter, and her loss leaves a gaping hole in our hearts.

“She was gleefully optimistic, had a smile that could light up a room, and gave the best hugs. She loved caring for children as a nanny and looked forward to having a family of her own. “McKayla was a radiant light in the world known for her selfless nature and unwavering compassion. As an avid climber and hiker, McKayla found solace and connection with God in nature's embrace.

“Inspired by her entrepreneurial parents, she hoped to start a business of her own one day. She was highly photogenic and loved to model within the community. McKayla will be remembered as a selfless beacon of light who touched hundreds of lives, inspiring others to overcome life's challenges.”

Her family added in a Facebook post-Mr Perez was planning on proposing on the day of the accident. As she did not have life insurance, a GoFundMe page was launched to cover funeral expenses.

They wrote online: “She would have turned 25 this Monday, September 30th. Her boyfriend Andrew Perez was driving the car, and she was in the passenger seat.

“There was a stalled Pontiac in the middle of the highway. Two large Freightliner Utility trucks crashed into the Pontiac, which created the multi-vehicle crash. Her vehicle was crushed and flipped over. McKayla was the only person who had died on the scene. “McKayla was a beautiful, thriving young woman with her entire life ahead of her. She didn't have life insurance, and we created this ground for me to help with her funeral expenses. Any contribution would be a blessing.”