Friends: Shoreham-Wading River HS senior dies of injures from crash

One of the three Shoreham-Wading River High School seniors involved in a crash Thursday night has died, News 12 Long Island has learned.
Maeve McNamara was among the friends and family members who kept vigil for 18-year-old Melissa Marchese at Stony Brook University Hospital, praying for her recovery. But McNamara says Marchese died of her injuries early Friday evening.
Another close friend made the announcement on a GoFundMe page initially made for Marchese's medical expenses. It reads in part: "With a heavy heart, deep sorrow and tremendous regret I write to inform you that Melissa Marchese has gone to be with the Lord."
The crash happened when Marchese and two of her classmates were heading to an award ceremony at the high school shortly before 7 p.m. Thursday. Police say the teens were turning left from Miller Avenue onto Route 25A when their car was broadsided by a Honda driven by a 34-year-old man from Ridge. A witness told police the Honda driver went through an amber light as it turned red.
Police say Marchese was airlifted to Stony Brook University Hospital with serious head injuries.
Elizabeth Shields says she just saw Marchese on Thursday, the last day of school. She says Marchese was looking forward to graduation in two weeks and enjoying the summer with friends before heading to college.
Marchese was a standout softball and basketball player for the Wildcats. She was planning to attend the University of Hartford in the fall.
Friends say they'll never forget her sunny smile and compassion. They're planning a fundraiser to help Marchese's family. They'll sell yellow ribbons -- the color chosen to reflect Marchese's energy and positive spirit.