The Southeast Alamance High School community is grieving the devastating loss of one of its own, senior Lily Hahn, who tragically died this past weekend in a car accident.
The collision occurred on Highway 87 and involved two vehicles in a head-on crash that claimed Lily’s life and left a profound impact on all who knew her.
According to the Alamance County Rescue Unit, the crash took place on a stretch of Highway 87 that has seen its share of accidents. Lily was traveling in one of the vehicles involved in the head-on collision.
The other car was carrying a woman and two young children, all of whom sustained injuries. Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene, but despite their efforts, Lily succumbed to her injuries.
The news of Lily’s passing sent shockwaves through the school and local community. Southeast Alamance High School released a heartfelt statement on Sunday expressing the deep sorrow felt by students, staff, and faculty.
“Our entire Southeast Alamance community is deeply saddened by this loss,” the statement read. “To support our school community, we have arranged for extra grief counseling and support staff to be available on campus for any students or staff members who need assistance coping with this tragedy.”
Lily Hahn was a vibrant and beloved member of the student body. A senior preparing to graduate, she had dreams for the future that were tragically cut short.
Described by classmates and teachers as kind, creative, and full of life, Lily was a friend to many and a positive influence on everyone who knew her. She had a bright smile, a caring spirit, and a determination to make the most of each day.
“She was the kind of person who made others feel seen and heard,” said one of Lily’s classmates. “She had this quiet strength and was always there when you needed her. It just doesn’t feel real that she’s gone.”
In addition to being an engaged student, Lily was active in several extracurricular activities and often volunteered her time for school events and community service. She was looking forward to prom and graduation — milestones that now stand as painful reminders of a life lost too soon.
This tragedy comes during what has already been a difficult year for the Alamance-Burlington School System, which has experienced multiple student deaths. Each loss has taken an emotional toll, and the passing of Lily Hahn adds another layer of grief for the Southeast Alamance High community.
The school district is working to ensure mental health resources are available not only for students and staff at Southeast but across the district, where the impact of these events is being widely felt.
Parents, teachers, and local leaders have expressed their condolences and are calling for efforts to improve traffic safety and awareness, especially on roads like Highway 87 where the crash occurred. Some are advocating for more visible signage, speed control measures, and community education around safe driving practices, particularly for younger drivers.
A memorial is being planned to honor Lily’s memory, giving classmates, teachers, and loved ones the opportunity to gather, share memories, and begin the healing process. In the days to come, the community will reflect not only on the loss but also on the light Lily brought to their lives.
Lily Hahn will be remembered for her kindness, her promise, and the joy she brought to those around her. Though her life ended far too early, the impact she made will not be forgotten.
