BEDFORD, NH — The Trinity High School community, along with the entire town of Bedford, is mourning the heartbreaking loss of junior Lauren Souza, who tragically died in a single-vehicle accident early Easter Sunday.
At approximately 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, emergency crews responded to the scene of a devastating crash on Back River Road, just south of the County Road intersection near the Peter Woodbury School. According to investigators, the vehicle, driven solely by Lauren, had been traveling southbound when it left the right side of the roadway, struck a utility pole, and rolled over into the adjacent school parking lot.
Bedford police and firefighters arrived quickly, but despite their efforts, Lauren succumbed to her injuries at the scene.
Throughout Sunday, the crash site bore painful reminders of the accident: a cracked utility pole still awaiting repair, fresh marks in the dirt from where the vehicle veered off the road, and a small tree showing signs of impact.
The loss was formally announced in a heartfelt letter sent to the students and families of Trinity High School:
“With profound sadness, we share the news of the tragic passing of junior Lauren Souza, who was involved in a fatal, single-person motor vehicle accident last evening. We offer our prayers for Lauren and the Souza family as they deal with this unimaginable loss.”
Recognizing the profound impact this tragedy would have on students and staff, Trinity High School and St. Joseph’s Junior High School canceled academic classes for Monday, opening their doors from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. to offer counseling and emotional support to students. A crisis team is being coordinated to remain available throughout the week to help the school community cope with the loss.
Sources confirmed that Lauren was a Bedford resident, deeply rooted in her community, and beloved by her peers and teachers alike. Friends describe her as vibrant, kind-hearted, and full of promise—a young woman with a bright future ahead.
The Bedford Police Department continues to investigate the cause of the crash. No further details have been released at this time.
As news of Lauren’s death spread, an outpouring of grief and support emerged across social media, with classmates, friends, and community members expressing their sorrow and sharing memories of Lauren’s warm spirit and kindness.
Vigils and memorial efforts are already being discussed to honor her life and legacy.
The entire Bedford and Trinity High School community remains united in prayer and mourning, holding the Souza family close to their hearts during this unimaginable time.