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L’Anse High School students and community members packed the gym Tuesday evening, to pay tribute to two seniors who lost their lives in a tragic accident on Monday, and one who continues to fight for her life.
Dylan Roberts of Aura and Christopher Turpeinen of Pelkie were found dead in a car in rural L’Anse Township. Hunter Pelon of Baraga was rescued by first responders. She is being treated in Green Bay, and her condition is not known.
For the girls basketball game against Wakefield-Marenisco, the gym walls were covered with memorial posters for Roberts and Turpeinen, and messages of hope for Pelon. Homestead Graphics in Baraga donated professionally-made vinyl banners for each student, as well.
Many students and fans wore plaid flannel shirts, in tribute to the favorite garb of Roberts and Turpeinen.
Before the game began, L’Anse player Addison Mattson paid tribute to Roberts and Turpeinen…
Kailyn Voskuhl shared words of encouragement for Pelon, who is a member of the varsity team…
Pelon’s jersey was draped over a chair on the L’Anse sideline, with a rose on the seat.
The L’Anse athletic department waived admission fees for the game, and donations were accepted to aid the families. The athletic boosters donated their portion of the 50-50 raffle to the families, as well.
Officials said that donations to assist the families will also be accepted for the next few days at the school office.
An investigation continues to determine how the tragedy happened. The Baraga County Sheriff’s Department has listed the preliminary cause of death as asphyxiation.
