NELSON COUNTY, Ky. — The Nelson County community plans to come together on Thursday to support multiple families who have experienced tragic losses over the past few days.
According to Nelson County Sheriff’s Major Brandon Bryan, a 13-year-old boy was found unresponsive in their room over the weekend. The child’s parents found him and immediately called 911. Bryan said CPR was started but the child could not be saved.
The sheriff’s department is investigating, but no foul play is suspected.
Bryan also confirmed a 16-year-old girl died after she lost control of her vehicle on Woodlawn Road, near Freeman Avenue, and hit several trees. He said wet roads were a factor in the crash.
The teenager was taken to the University of Louisville Hospital, but later died from her injuries.
"Unfortunately, Nelson County is not new to tragedy," Bryan said, "but the good thing about Nelson County is that when something tragic does happen, our community does come together like something you don't see in many places."
Family have confirmed the 16-year-old is Lily Smith. A friend of the family told WHAS11 Lily was an organ donor and is currently at UofL Hospital while KODA works to find organ recipients. Her parents were not aware she was an organ donor, but shared it makes them even more proud of their amazing girl.
Liberty Tax in Bardstown is raising money for the family to help cover medical and funeral expenses.
If you would like to donate you can do so at Liberty Tax 800 E John Rowan Blvd in Bardstown. Please direct the donation to the Angel Charity, for Lily.
“It has been a hard week for many in Nelson County. We know our dispatchers are feeling it along with other responders," the Nelson County Dispatch group wrote on social media in response to the tragedies.
"Those type of calls stay with you for your career," Shawn Gaither, director of Nelson County Dispatch, said. Years ago, he took a call, and discovered it was his best friend.
Back then, he made it through the difficult time with help from fellow dispatchers. "The more that we show our support for one another, the better this community becomes," he said.
Bryan has planned a community wide vigil for Thursday at 6:45 p.m. in front of the Nelson County Justice Center. According to the flyer, it is a candle vigil and prayer service. Candles will be provided. "Let's light our candles, come together as a community, and just let the families know that we're here," he encouraged.
"Those that show up will see that this community is very strong and they can get through just about anything," Gaither said.
The speakers will include Judge Executive Timmy Hutchins, State Representative Candy Massaroni and FOP Chaplain Jon Snow.
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