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Vigil for Veronica Zimmermann draws 100
Vigil participants write comments in a book honoring Veronica Zimmermann’s memory. The Napa teen was killed a year ago as a result of a solo vehicle crash. More than 100 people participated in the vigil. Submitted photo | Buy photos
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
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More than 100 people gathered at Napa’s Veterans Memorial Park Monday night to honor the memory of Veronica Zimmermann, a Napa teen who died in a car crash on Oct. 26, 2008.

The event was organized by members of the Zimmermann family and friends, including crash survivors Brittney and Holly Moore, 18 and 16, respectively.
Holly and Brittney said they were surprised by the turnout. They had no firm idea of how many people would show up after sending messages out to friends, students and former students from every local high school.

Holly and friends tied pink ribbons to a metal railing at the edge of the Napa River as participants waited their turn write memories, wishes and other messages in a book set up in the center of the park. A large photo of Veronica Zimmermann was placed next to the book.
Holly said the idea for the vigil was “for everyone to remember her and keep her spirit alive.”

Later in the evening, Veronica’s father, John, thanked the participants — a mix of old and young — for  making the vigil happen, according to Kim Beadleston, a family friend.
Zimmermann was killed after a pickup truck with a crew cab, traveling at high speed, failed to negotiate an S-curve on First Avenue in east Napa. The truck rolled and crashed into a power pole. Veronica Zimmermann was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Vintage High senior was known for her compassion and her knack for taking care of young children. She spoke fluent Spanish and wanted to be a nurse.
7 comment(s)

ambonizay wrote on Oct 28, 2009 7:31 AM:

" What happened to the driver who killed Veronica, who was traveling at high speed, rolled, and crashed into the power pole? "

wine nurse wrote on Oct 28, 2009 8:58 AM:

" What is interesting to me is that people who have no idea of what really happened that night sit and argue that someone was speeding or defend the possibility that this tragedy was caused by someone speeding.

I was not present that night but I do know their people people who lived very close to the crash and they heard the truck speed up right before it happened....

To play dumb as if it "just happened " wouldn't really educate anyone.......

I pray for everyone involved and for the families of each teen involved including the driver that night. What a horrible thing to live with the rest of your life. "

two-cents wrote on Oct 28, 2009 9:56 AM:

" It's natural to look for a reason for the tragedy but some of the comments posted (yesterday and today) detract from the purpose of a well-intended event. The memorial was to honor and celebrate the life of Veronica.

Please refer to the words of Veronica's family - published November 15, 2008:

"..... She was with her good friends when she died, likely smiling and laughing, as was her habit. How wonderful it would be if we could all choose that way to pass — immediate, painless and without suffering, in the company of those we love.

What is to come of this tragedy? Hopefully, it will serve to bring our community closer in God’s name. We must allow only good to be derived from this. There should be no room for negativity in this world. No blame must be placed.

It was an unfortunate accident, period. We must reach out to those other beautiful young people who were involved, and to all of those so profoundly affected by our loss, and embrace them and help them to heal. Veronica would have wanted it that way."

This was one of the most gracious and eloquently written letters published in recent memory. Honor Veronica and her family by abiding by their wishes. "

cookies wrote on Oct 28, 2009 10:12 AM:

" Wine nurse it was caused by a high rate of speed. You don't snap a power pole in half going the speep limit. I was also one of the first people on the scene right after happened, it was as clear as day that speed was a factor. It was a very devistating scene and one I hope I never have to see again. Yes, the message is slow down, the life you save may be your own. "

xmrs09 wrote on Oct 28, 2009 1:40 PM:

" Very well said, two-cents. Too bad more of the "negative" people don't really get this concept. "

dontbugme wrote on Oct 28, 2009 1:42 PM:

" Listen,young people ! I,too,was a young,carefree guy who made many mistakes. Daily,I drive by the spot where this happened and say a little prayer to All involved. Sure,it's sad ! I never knew any of them,but,as I drive by I somehow know I do,"feel a presence".
The God I know has,only,good for us,so,Veronica is,surely,in a better place than our temporary places,here.
The spirit in me tells me of the love and concern for the driver,that night. As I type this,I feel her presence and her light. She must have been a beautiful example of Gods' creation to fill my heart with so much joy.
To the young driver,I say,"You must go forward,knowing that you cannot dwell on your mistake,but live with compassion for others while knowing Veronica will always be there to encourage you on the road of happy destiny".
It seems that everyone is in a big hurry these days. Where ya goin ? I was there that night as the truck came by my house. I know the story,well. No blame ! Got it ? Always remember Veronica as she does you ! She SHINES ! She's fine,John ! Let Go--Let God ! "

best nana wrote on Oct 28, 2009 5:10 PM:

" A young man I know was very good friends with Veronica and all who knew her know it was speed that caused the crash and nothing was done to the driver. A lot of her friends are upset over this but as I understand it this is what the family wanted. "

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