Emotional Memorial Marked Anniversary of Fatal Hit and Run

It was one year on Sunday since a

A Catholic memorial Mass was held at and attended by close friends and family, on the one-year anniversary.

“It was very emotional,” said Gabby’s sister, Ilona Gregory, who gave a speech along with her brothers. Gabby was the youngest of five and would have been 19.

“Part of my words were that on the one hand it seems like the longest year of our lives and, on the other hand, I can’t believe it’s a year already; it still feels so raw and new . . .  My sister really did die. It seems like, did that really happen?” 

Gabby was on her way to Alpine Fest, when a driver struck her and two friends on Church Street, July 22, 2011.

This year at Alpine Fest, Gabby’s friends set up a booth, with the help of Lake Zurich police.  They sold bumper stickers for $5 each and held a bake sale to raise funds to increase the reward from $10,000 to $15,000, for information leading to the arrest of the driver.

“We continue to be amazed at the friendships Gabby developed. Her friends were so dedicated walking around Alpine Fest pushing bumper stickers,” Gregory said.

Gregory said her family continues to work with The description of the vehicle of interest is a two tone, blue with a second lighter color possible gray or silver, 1985 – 1994 Chevy Astro Van or GMC Safari.  

“We’re just looing for justice. Nothing will change in our daily lives; nothing can bring Gabby back. Our lives will never be the same. We’re adjusting to a new normal and we’re wanting some justice,” Gregory said. 

Anyone with information is asked to contact either Commander David Bradstreet at the Lake Zurich Police Department, (847) 719-1690 ext 6133, or the Lake County Crime Stoppers at (847) 662-2222.