Funeral held for Laura Yost, Panther Creek student killed in crash

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Saturday, September 27, 2014
Family and friends say goodbye to Panther Creek student killed in crash
A funeral was held Saturday morning for a 15-year-old Panther Creek High School student killed in a crash.

CARY, N.C. (WTVD) -- Saturday was an extremely difficult day for everyone who gathered before 10 a.m. at Cary's St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church to mourn Laura Yost.

The 15-year-old sophomore soccer player spent a week in the hospital after a loaded dump truck collided with an SUV with Laura, her brother Ryan and 16-year-old driver Spencer Saunders inside.

Cary investigators, who later charged Saunders, say he turned into the path of the truck.

He and Laura's brother were not seriously hurt, at least not physically, but they shared the anguish felt by all who knew and loved her.

Many took to Twitter, responding to the hashtag #PrayForLaura with messages of hope and support.

Saunders also posted a message on the social media site:

"This feels like a nightmare. I've never hated myself so much before and I've never wanted to see you hurt. You're the closest I have to a sister, and you mean so much to me. Words can't describe how badly I feel. I would do anything to take your place, you don't deserve this. Everyone, please, pray for Laura and the Yost family."

One week after rescue crews rushed her to the hospital, Laura died there.

Saturday's service gave her family, friends and supporters the time and space to grieve privately.

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