'Vibrant' Student Who Died In Crash Mourned By South Jersey Community
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WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, NJ — A teen who died in a crash last weekend was a beloved member of the Washington Township school community, according to district leadership.
Sophia Bennett, 16, has been identified as the victim of a fatal collision Friday night in Deptford. She was a sophomore and multi-sport athlete at Washington Township High School, according to the district superintendent and school principal.
“Sophia was not just a student,” Superintendent Dr. Eric Hibbs and Principal Raymond F. Anderson III wrote to the district community. “She was a vibrant member of our community, a swimmer, and a member of our softball program. Her warmth, kindness, and spirit touched the lives of many, and her presence will be deeply missed by students, teachers, staff, and all who knew her.”
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WTHS students and staff have been encouraged to wear blue on Wednesday to honor Bennett’s memory.
Her loss has left the Washington Township community in mourning, according to Mayor Laurie Burns.
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“The passing of such a young life is an unimaginable sorrow, and we extend our sincerest condolences and support during this difficult time,” Burns said in a statement. “As a community, let us come together to mourn, to support one another, and to honor the memory of this sweet child we lost too soon.”
A GoFundMe supporting Bennett’s family has raised more than $22,000.
Washington Township Public Schools are partnered with Care Solace, which provides complimentary and confidential mental health services. Find more info here.
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