Friends, family, acquaintances, and some who didn’t even know her came out to a vigil to honor 19-year-old Jeffny Pally.
Pally, a UConn student, was struck by a fire vehicle when the crews responded to a call Sunday around 1 a.m., according to officials. The Medical Examiner's Office said the West Hartford native died from blunt injuries to her torso and head and classified her death as an accident.
Friends and family said the young woman always had a smile on her face and made sure others did too. Tuesday night the UConn community gathered to honor her and remember her life.
“Jeffny, if you're hearing this I promise I'll do everything to keep your memory alive forever,” friend Sharon Thomas said.
While state police investigate how this accident happened, those who knew Pally work to preserve her memory.
"I know a lot of people who were touched by her life," said Nur Ellafi. "It's a big university and you never know how many lives you've touched."
The UConn sophomore was an aspiring nurse practitioner. Those who knew her described her as courageous, compassionate and god-fearing. Nearly one thousand people attended the vigil and lit candles in Pally’s memory, letting the family know the impact her life had.
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Pally's parents told NBC Connecticut she was youngest of three siblings, she leaves behind a sister and a brother. Pally’s mother Shiny Chemmarappally spoke at the vigil.
“We have an angel in heaven to pray for – in our difficult times,” Chemmarappally said.
State police are investigating the accident. The driver of the vehicle has been placed on administrative duties.
