Novato Advance
The San Marin High School community, stunned by grief, braced themselves this week as they mourned the death of Zach Wilhelm. The high school junior died Sunday (Feb. 20) after a car crash near Stafford Lake involving other students on mid-winter break.
Wilhelm, 17, was one of four teens in a Honda Pilot that crashed into a tree along Novato Boulevard near Stafford Lake. Wilhelm and student Neyat Tesfay, also a passenger, were hospitalized with major head injuries. The driver and the third passenger suffered moderate-to-minor injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Tesfay remains in ICU fighting for her life.
Police are still investigating why the driver veered off the road. The initial investigation found no evidence that intoxication was a factor.
A Vigil at San Marin Courtyard was held on Monday night (Feb. 21).
A Go Fund Me page has been set up for both students. The
The Go Fund Me Page for Wilhelm says: “The friends of the Wilhelm Family are creating this Go Fund Me to raise money to assist them with all expenses associated with the horrific tragedy. No words can express the sorrow and depth of this tragedy, and as we search for ways to comfort and support Karen, Doug, and Grant, we have decided to start here. More details will be forthcoming. Prayers, notes of support, and contributions are very much appreciated.”
Novato Unified School District Superintendent Jan La Torre-Derby sent a letter to the community to ask for “prayers and support” for those in the accident.
“Thanks to our partners at Novato Police Department, Novato Fire, and California Highway Patrol, the students were transported to different hospitals to best meet their individual needs. As we address the needs of our students, staff, and families, we do so from a place of compassion. We must join together as a community as we experience this tragic event, stay focused on the students involved, and hold each other near with unconditional love and support.”
She also said counseling for students and staff continues “during this difficult time.”
Please be assured of our prayers for the students, their families and the faculty at San Marin High School. This is a tragedy beyond words.
Thank you, Sister.