A New Port Richey woman was trying to help a motorcyclist injured in a crash when she was hit and killed in Holiday, troopers said.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Denise Gajus, 66, was struck by a vehicle while trying to cross southbound U.S. 19 just south of Alternate 19 Sunday night just after 9 p.m.

Troopers said the chain of incidents leading to Gajus' death started earlier in the evening, when Brittany Anello drove north in the southbound lanes of U.S. 19. Investigators said Anello, who was under the influence at the time, hit three cars.

A passenger in one of the vehicles involved in that crash was taken to the hospital. Afterwards, Ward's Towing Company was called to the scene to assist.  Gajus and her husband are the owners of the towing company, officials said.

Troopers said that during that time, a motorcycle in the northbound lanes of U.S. 19 was thrown onto the roadway after slamming his brakes. Gajus was rushing to help the motorcyclist when she was hit by a Toyota SUV heading southbound.

Anello was taken to the Pasco County Jail on DUI charges.