Community Rallies Around Family Following Teen's Death In Crash

NORWICH, CT — The community is supporting a local family following the death of a teen in a car crash.

Leilani Robinson, 18, of Norwich, died in an accident on I-395 northbound in Waterford on Thursday.

Related: Teen Killed In Waterford I-395 Crash, ID Released: State Police

A GoFundMe has been started in her memory by Edward Volkerts.

The fundraiser reads: "On Thursday, June 25th, 2026, my beloved little sister Leilani Robinson was taken from us in a tragic car accident at just 18 years old. Leilani was full of life, kindness, and dreams for the future. Her sudden passing has left our family heartbroken and struggling to come to terms with this unimaginable loss. We want to honor her memory with a proper burial and a meaningful goodbye, surrounded by those who loved her most."

The funds raised will go toward covering funeral and memorial service costs.

"We want to give her the farewell she deserves, but the expenses are overwhelming for our family," the GoFundMe reads. "Your support will help us create a space where friends and family can gather, share memories, and celebrate the beautiful life Leilani lived."

As of Tuesday morning, the fundraiser had generated $8,000 on 36 donations.

To view the GoFundMe, click here.

Robinson was a recent graduate of the New London school system. Superintendent Cynthia Ritchie said in a statement that Robinson was "an incredible student and human being, with several talents and gifts."