West Islip high school holds vigil for 17-year-old student, other victims in devastating crash
WEST ISLIP, Long Island (WABC) -- An emotional prayer vigil was held Monday night at a high school on Long Island for a 17-year-old student on life support, and several other teens who were involved in a deadly crash over the weekend.
Suffolk County Police say a man blew a light in West Babylon before striking a car, carrying five teens, including 18-year-old Riley Goot of Babylon, who was killed. The remaining four are now fighting for their lives.
"When the fire crews pulled up, they realized that one of the victims was one of our members," said West Babylon Fire Department Chief Steven Kamalic.
He says 18-year-old Austin Trezza is a probationary volunteer firefighter.
He and four others were heading home around 1 a.m. when they were t-boned at East Neck Road and Railroad Avenue.
The 33-year-old driver from Lindenhurst, who caused the crash, died.
"Praying for all families. Praying for a miracle for one of the victims as well," Kamalic said.
Austin Trezza's younger sister, 17-year-old Bella Trezza, who was driving the group home from a party, is on life support.
The St. John the Baptist High School senior was known for her bubbly spirit.
"She was always so sweet, always had such a positive attitude," said Bella Trezza's friend Gabby Port. "Whenever she talked, she always lit up the room. And of course she was beautiful."
The devastating crash has left the community in shock.
"There's a sense of shock here and sadness as I walk around the building," said St. John the Baptist High School Principal Vincent Albrecht.
The community is now praying for healing for the survivors, especially the 17-year-old, whose father and family were in the front row at the vigil receiving comfort from friends and their faith.
"I'm just praying for her health and miracles can happen," said friend Gabby Valente.
Albrecht says Trezza was an aspiring nurse and volunteers through the school's ministries.
The community is hoping she can overcome her injuries and chase her dreams of helping others.
Counselors and support services are now available to students.
"I was just with some of our students in the library who are very shaken up by the fact that Bella is in the condition that she's in and they're all praying for her," Albrecht said. "Our chapel has been full all day with students, praying for Bella, praying for a miracle."
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