Obituaries

Murrieta Teen Killed In Suspected DUI Crash ID'd, Vigil Planned

The community is invited to a vigil planned for Lily Kelly Harrison and her two friends.

Lily Kelly Harrison died Saturday as she was in a car with her friends.  The CHP says a drunk driver was responsible.
Lily Kelly Harrison died Saturday as she was in a car with her friends. The CHP says a drunk driver was responsible. (Faith Zember)

MURRIETA, CA โ€” Lily Kelly Harrison had just wrapped up her Freshman year of high school. Summer break was underway for the 15-year-old when she was out with her two friends on Saturday evening. But as they drove along Rancho California Road near Temecula, they were hit by a drunk driver, according to the CHP.

The aspiring singer died at the scene of the head-on collision and her two friends were both hospitalized.

An 18-year-old recent high school graduate and friend of Lily's, who was driving the 2005 Toyota Corolla that was hit by the accused DUI driver, had recently signed on to play football in college, according to friends and his social media profile. He underwent four hours of surgery and suffered a brain bleed, according to Lily's family.

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I AM by Lily from Native Tongue Media on Vimeo.

Another 18-year-old from Murrieta was in the right, rear seat when the crash occurred. He underwent approximately four hours of surgery and had multiple metal plates placed to help with his major injuries, Lily's family said.

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All three had attended Calvary Murrieta Christian High School and were part of a close-knit community.

Tonight, that community is coming together in memory of Lily and to support the two young men.

"Due to the tragic accident that took place on Saturday, we will be holding a candle light vigil for Lilyโ€™s family, as well [the two Murrieta teens in the car]," Calvary Murrieta said on Facebook. "Please bring a candle and join us for a time of remembrance and prayer. If anyone is in need of pastoral care or counseling during this time, please do not hesitate to call our church office at 677-5667."

Lily's family and friends tell Patch that they wish to spread the word far and wide that everyone is invited to the event.

"Anyone and everyone are welcome that wants to attend," Lily's uncle, Jeff Zember, said.

The vigil is set for 6 p.m. at Calvary Murrieta, located at 24225 Monroe Avenue.

"Iโ€™m praying with my whole heart that God moves Mountains thru this tragedy to win lives for Jesus!" Lily's mom Faith Zember said via her friend Lauren Bihun. "I want to pack the house at the vigil and at the service... God is good. He is on the thrown. He always brings goodness. Always. Pack the house, to praise the Lord in the midst of our sorrow."

If you're looking to help Lily's family in another way, a GoFundMe account has been set up. You can find that here and donate.

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