Family Of Girl Killed By Wrong-Way Driver Still Grief-Stricken
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- The pastor counseling the family of a three-year-old girl killed by a wrong-way driver says her family is still grief-stricken. Christie Ileto has more.
The fatal accident is still deep on the Kelley family's mind. Pastor Rick Plantholt says they're taking it day by day.
"Very distraught," Plantholt said.
Police say 21-year-old Victoria DeAngelo had a blood alcohol level of .18, twice the legal limit, when she drove the wrong way on the Curtis Creek Drawbridge, hitting the Kelley car last month.
She killed both herself and three-year-old Lily and injured Lily's sister and mother, Kimberly Taylor, who friends say as of Friday is back in Shock Trauma.
"Any time something like this happens, no matter how strong your faith is, you always have a tendency to ask why and you have to get back to the foundation," Plantholt said.
Lily's grandparents, Dot and Melvin Kelley, attend Pastor Plantholt's church. He's been counseling the family as they grieve.
"They need time, that's what they need," he said.
The Kelley family is still trying to make sense of it all as family friends are pitching in.
"DeVille Ink and us, we're just one big family and Pat's part of that family," said Ron Peterson.
DeVille Ink is where Lily's father has been planning a benefit concert for Sunday to help with funeral costs for the three-year-old and start a scholarship fund for her sister.
"We've had numerous donations for silent auction," said KC DeVille. "Pandora bracelets, chocolate diamonds in the shape of footballs and gift certificates."
KC DeVille says help and support continue to pour in for the Kelleys, who are relying more than ever on their friends and community to get them through.
"We're trying to support them with prayers," Plantholt said.
Organizes of this weekend's event are also selling what they call the Lily Jo Heart decals and tattoos at the benefit concert as lasting mementos of the 3-year-old whose life was tragically cut short.
Along with the benefit concert scheduled for Sunday from noon to 7 at Sylvester's Saloon in Essex. A memorial fund has also been set up. To contribute, send checks to PO Box 9034 in Baltimore (21222).
