Hickory Ridge students gather to remember student killed in crash

CONCORD, N.C. — Saturday students at Hickory Ridge High School in Harrisburg gathered at a memorial to say goodbye to one of their own.

Troopers said 16-year-old Katelyn Ziglar was riding down Lower Rocky River Road in Concord with two friends. Troopers said the driver, 16-year old Grant Lucas, was speeding when he lost control of the car and crashed into a tree.

Another passenger, 16-year-old Eric Fox, was thrown from the car. Troopers said both Fox and Lucas were seriously injured, but were expected to recover. They were all students at Hickory Ridge High School.

"She was so happy around everybody and she never knew a stranger," said Harli Tilley.

Tilley and dozens of others brought flowers and candles to Hickory Ridge High School Saturday. The mayor of Harrisburg even gathered with students to pray with them.

"When one's hurt, we're all hurting. We all want to just rally together around the family and around the students," said Mayor Tim Hagler.

Ziglar's pastor told Eyewitness News that her parents and little brother are struggling with the loss, but he said they are drawing strength from God.

"That's the hope that her family has right now. Knowing that Katelyn is in heaven. We don't have her here physically, but we know that one day she'll be reunited with her family, because of that hope she put in Jesus Christ," said Pastor Jonathan Blamkenship of Laurel Baptist Church.

He said the church has established the "Katelyn Ziglar Memorial Fund" on the family's behalf. Friends may help the family by donating at http://www.laurelbaptistchurch.com.

Troopers said the driver of the car could face charges, but they said the case has to be presented to the district attorney for review. They said none of the people in the car were wearing seat belts.

WSOC