BARDSTOWN, Ky. — After tragedies struck in Nelson County, the community came together to show their support on Thursday as they grieve during this challenging time.
Judge Executive Tim Hutchins said they gathered for "Jamie Clayton, Hayden Reynolds, Lilly Smith, as well as others who we have recently loss and others today."
A large crowd gathered together as one with lighted candles, remembering several lives taken unexpectedly within a week's time.
Close friends and family reminisced about their loved ones.
"Lilly was a blessed soul, just a people person; she wanted to give and do unto others," community member Adam Gosson said.
Smith is one of two teens who's life was cut short in Nelson County. The 16-year-old died after losing control of her car while driving.
Friends said her personality will never be forgotten.
"Every time I was at school and I saw her she always had a smile on her face," classmate Emma Heck said.
There was an overwhelming amount of students from Thomas Nelson High School to support Smith.
"Once she came through that door it was always a positive attitude and was ready to start the day," classmate Hannah Wolf said.
That same weekend Lilly passed, a 13-year-old boy was found unresponsive in his room. And then tragedy struck again before the vigil.
"We actually lost two more today in some accidents in Nelson County so very tragic, very sad," Hutchins said.
Nelson County is a close community that does everything they can to look out for one another.
"When tragedy hits Bardstown, Bardstown comes together strong," Gosson said.
They're all about supporting their community and just being there for each other.
"I think it's great that the community cares really much about each other and that we can all come together and support each other during this hard time," community member Peyton Greenwell said.
However, some in Nelson County said they're going to need more than just support as they grieve.
"Just continue to pray for the families; it's been a hard week on the families and the kids that are so close to these kids," Gosson said.
Nelson County Sheriff Chief Deputy Brandon Bryan and the Fraternal Order of Police organized the community vigil after local first responders assisted with some of those emergencies.
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