On September 18, 2025, Zach Griffin, a 17-year-old soccer player from Bel Air, Maryland, was involved in a devastating car accident that left his community in shock and mourning.
The accident occurred when Zach’s vehicle was rear-ended by another car, propelling it into an oncoming school bus.
Tragically, his girlfriend, 16-year-old Blake Elliott, was a passenger in the vehicle and did not survive the crash.
The Harford County community has come together to honor Blake’s memory.
Hundreds of classmates, friends, and teammates gathered for a candlelight vigil at C. Milton Wright High School, where Blake was a junior and a cherished member of the soccer team.
During the accident, Zach suffered critical injuries and was immediately rushed to Shock Trauma.
He underwent one surgery and may require one or two more as he continues to fight for his recovery.
On Facebook, a supporter wrote:
I’m reaching out to ask all my friends and family for prayers. My mom’s best friend’s son was involved in a serious accident and is currently fighting for his life. Please support Zach and his parents during this difficult time.
Via Facebook
The Hickory Lodge Facebook page shared:
The New Vision Soccer Academy posted:
Last night I attended the vigil for Blake Elliott. New Vision had the honor of training her for a short time, and she was a true joy to have inside our facility. At the same time, another player close to our academy, Zach Griffin continues to fight after undergoing brain surgery. Please join me in saying a prayer for Zach and wishing him a full and speedy recovery. At the vigil, I saw something powerful: players from rival schools standing side by side in support of the Elliott family, Zach, and one another. It was a reminder of how strong our community truly is. Moments like this show us how small the rivalries really are. Beneath it all, we’re one community, one family, one team. 💙⚽ Rest in peace, Blake. Stay strong, Zach — we’re all behind you.
Via Facebook
Officials reported that the teens’ vehicle had stopped completely in the southbound lane of Route 543, waiting to turn left onto Crescent Knoll Drive.
A 39-year-old driver, reportedly distracted and using a cellphone, failed to stop in time and rear-ended their car at full speed.
The impact of the collision pushed Zach and Blake’s car into the path of an oncoming school bus, resulting in a catastrophic crash.
In total, eight individuals were transported to nearby hospitals.
Six of them, including several passengers from the school bus, sustained injuries that were non-life-threatening.
According to authorities, the driver responsible for the crash and his passengers were not injured.
The investigation is still ongoing, and no charges have been announced at this time.
A GoFundMe Page Launched to Support Zach Griffin
In the wake of this tragedy, Erika Kitz launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover Zach Griffin’s medical expenses and support Blake Elliott’s grieving family.
So far, the campaign has raised over $68K from more than 1,200 generous donors, approaching its $80K goal with the continued support of the community.
Similarly, a separate GoFundMe was established for Blake Elliott to provide both financial and emotional support to the Elliott family.
According to the latest update, Zach underwent a successful craniotomy on Thursday night, the day of the accident.
He continues to face several other medical challenges and remains sedated and intubated, while his surgery on the right arm has now been completed.
Zach’s condition is critical but stable, as doctors closely monitor his neurological functions.
Encouragingly, he is slowly showing signs of improvement and becoming more active.
Since the accident, Zach has been surrounded by loving friends and family, who have been a constant source of support throughout his recovery.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Zach was a committed soccer player and a valued member of the C. Milton Wright High School community.
- He also worked as a busser at a local restaurant, balancing work alongside his studies and sports.
