Vermont Community Honors Teens a Decade After Tragic Crash

Javier Morales

Vermonters remember five teens lost in a tragic crash 10 years ago with scholarships and memorials, holding a community vigil to honor their impact.

A decade after a tragic crash that claimed five young lives, Vermont communities are gathering to remember and honor Eli Brookens, Janie Chase Cozzi, Liam Hale, Mary Harris, and Cyrus Zschau. The incident occurred on October 8, 2016, when Steven D. Bourgoin collided with the teens' vehicle on Interstate 89. The deliberate wrong-way crash resulted in Vermont's deadliest mass homicide, deeply affecting the community.

The tragedy spurred an outpouring of grief and support from six towns and beyond, uniting people across Vermont and greater New England. Commemorative acts include scholarships, fundraisers, and memorials like stars illuminated year-round across local barns and homes, symbolizing the enduring impact and shared memory of the deceased teens.

Memorials and Memories

The Harwood community has embraced memorial initiatives to honor the teens, like the Eli Brookens Memorial Fund and the Liam Kenneth Hale Adventure Scholarship. These projects are designed to keep their memories alive and support community members. The Eli Brookens Fund, for instance, assists children in accessing skiing opportunities, a nod to Eli's love for the sport.

Similarly, the Liam Kenneth Hale Adventure Scholarship offers a Sugarbush Four Season Pass to support students' athletic pursuits. Both programs highlight a commitment to fostering opportunities for young people in memory of the beloved students who were lost too soon.

Community Healing and Legacy

The impact of the 2016 crash continues to resonate, reshaping community interactions and support networks. For local officials and community leaders, this tragedy underscores the importance of proactive support systems for mental health and communal resilience.

Memorial initiatives not only honor those lost but also strengthen community bonds by creating ongoing engagement and healing opportunities. As cities consider policies on remembrance and community support, these stories offer insights on sustaining communal heritage and healing through collective initiatives rooted in local values.

Questions That Matter

What tragic event affected Vermont communities?

On October 8, 2016, a crash caused by Steven D. Bourgoin on Interstate 89 claimed the lives of five Vermont teens. This event profoundly impacted the local community, prompting various memorials and tributes over the decade.

What memorials have been established for the victims?

The community has established scholarships, memorial funds, and physical markers like benches and gazebos. These initiatives, such as the Eli Brookens Memorial Fund and the Liam Kenneth Hale Adventure Scholarship, help keep the victims' memories alive.