Delmar and surrounding communities come together to remember Carter Figgs after tragic car accident
DELAMR, Del. – The Delmar community is mourning the loss of their fellow classmate, friend, brother, and student.
Despite the tragedy, officials say Delmar will pull through because of its resiliency. “I see the town coming together and rallying and thats what makes Delmar, what Delmar is,” says Delmar School District Superintendent Andrew O’Neal.
A community coming together, following the loss of 16-year-old – Delmar High School Junior Carter Figgs. Better known as #32 – the football star, was killed in a crash Saturday in Salisbury.
Three other teens in the car, one currently in critical, but stable condition. The driver of the vehicle was accused of driving under the influence of alcohol. Now the community, coming together in full force. “We’re seeing support from our neighbors in Wicomico County public schools, our neighboring Delaware school districts are helping out, local business owners, and community members are coming forward and it’s been overwhelming but it’s been well received,” Superintendent O’Neal said.
O’Neal also says counseling services from surrounding school districts have stepped in to help. And Ocean City Fire Department brought in a therapy dog to assist during this time of need. At the high school, students had time on Monday to share memories. “Students have been able to come together talk today in our auditorium and kind of just come together and hang with their friends and other staff members and continue to have positive thoughts and share some of the memories that they’ve had,” Superintendent O’Neal said.
Following this tragedy, one community member says it’s good to see her community come together on a united front. “I think it’s very important, Delmar is a very close-knit community and everybody is so so sad about losing the boy, but I just feel so sorry for that family,” said local Connie Brumbley.
Brumbley says going forward she hopes the school district continues to promote safety in hopes of preventing another tragedy like this. With the community coming together, Superintendent O’Neal says the district is working hard to ensure safety across the district. “I want to thank our community, our students, our staff, and everybody because, at a time of need, this is when we all need to come together and this is what Delmar is known for. is coming together during tough times and I’m very appreciative as the superintendent of the district,” Superintendent O’Neal said.
The driver of the vehicle, a 17-year-old male was placed under arrest after the incident. The driver’s name is not being released at this time due to his age, however, he is being charged with criminal negligent manslaughter by vehicle and homicide by motor vehicle among other charges.
Salisbury Police are investigating and ask anyone with information about this incident to give them a call.
On Thursday you can join Parkside High School in showing their support for Delmar by wearing blue and orange.
Click here to add to the family’s GoFundMe link for funeral expenses.
