Beth Dunlap's volleyball number was 18 - and that's how she will be remembered.
The Downers Grove North High school student hit by car outside the school this week "will not recover from her injuries," school officials said Friday. Principal Janice Schwarze said the school learned Thursday night that family of the junior "is making final arrangements."
In a statement released by the school, Dunlap's family said they are asking for no more visitation.
"Beth appreciates the love and prayers that everyone has offered," the statement read. "Please continue to pray for Beth and celebrate her life."
Schwarze announced the news to students Friday morning.
"As a tribute to Beth, I ask you to think about ways to remember her spirit of strength while helping others. Beth’s number in volleyball was 18. Consider doing something positive in regards to this number in her honor," Schwarze said. "For example, you might perform 18 random acts of kindness. You might donate $18 to a charity. Do what feels right."
The school also held a moment of silence for 18 seconds.
Local
Dunlap was struck by a car while crossing Main Street outside the school around 11 a.m. Tuesday.
Police said an investigation indicated she was crossing the street in the marked crosswalk when a vehicle traveling southbound hit her. Dunlap was taken to Good Samaritan Hospital with "life-threatening injuries."
The driver remained at the scene and the incident was still under investigation Wednesday, police said. As of Friday, no charges had been filed, police said, but they noted they are investigating if drugs or alcohol played a role in the accident.
"Those who know Beth know that she was a fierce competitor and a strong person," Schwarze said in a school announcement. "As hard as this loss is for all of us, I believe that she would want us to be strong and take care of each other. In fact, Beth’s family has ensured that she will take care of others by donating her organs. While this tragedy has forever changed the lives of many in our community, the lives of other people have new hope because of Beth."
