Trinity High School Mourns Sudden Loss of Beloved Student Lauren Souza After Tragic Car Accident

Manchester, NH – April 23, 2025 — A profound wave of grief has swept through the halls of Trinity High School and across the broader Catholic educational community in Manchester, following the sudden and devastating passing of Lauren Souza, a vibrant and beloved student whose life was tragically cut short in a single-car accident early Sunday morning.

Lauren, remembered as a kindhearted leader, academic standout, and dedicated friend, was just 17 years old. Authorities say the accident occurred shortly after 1:00 a.m. on a quiet stretch of roadway near the city’s outskirts. According to preliminary reports from the Manchester Police Department, Lauren was the sole occupant of the vehicle when it veered off the road and struck a tree. Emergency personnel responded quickly to the scene, but Lauren was tragically pronounced deceased upon arrival.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and police have not yet released further details regarding contributing factors. However, they have confirmed that no other vehicles or individuals were involved.

A Devastating Loss Felt Throughout the Community

Trinity High School, a small but close-knit Catholic school located in the heart of Manchester, canceled all classes on Monday and opened its chapel for students, families, and staff to grieve and pray together. Counselors have been made available throughout the week to help students cope with the tragic loss.

“Lauren was a shining light within our school—intelligent, compassionate, driven, and full of promise,” said Trinity Principal Jennifer McAuliffe in an emotional statement to the school community. “She was involved in so much—from our student leadership program to the campus ministry and cheerleading squad. Her faith was strong, and her spirit was stronger. We are all better for having known her, and we are devastated by her passing.”

In honor of Lauren, the school gathered for a special memorial Mass on Tuesday, attended by hundreds of students, teachers, and members of the Diocese of Manchester. The Mass included prayers for Lauren’s family and all those affected by the tragedy.

Remembering Lauren Souza

Described by her peers as “uplifting,” “genuine,” and “a natural leader,” Lauren Souza was admired by students and faculty alike. She was preparing to graduate with honors in June and had recently been accepted to several colleges, where she had expressed a strong interest in studying nursing, with the goal of one day becoming a pediatric nurse.

“Lauren had the rare ability to make people feel seen and heard,” said classmate Marissa Bennett. “Even when she was busy or stressed, she always took time to check in on others. She had the kindest heart.”

Her teachers echoed those sentiments, with one saying Lauren had “a fierce determination and a grace that made her stand out.” She volunteered regularly at local shelters and had just helped organize the school’s annual Easter food drive.

Lauren’s parents, Maria and Thomas Souza, released a heartfelt statement through the school, thanking the community for their support.

“Lauren was our heart. She was everything a parent could hope for in a daughter—loving, bright, thoughtful, and filled with compassion. This loss is beyond words, but we are grateful for the outpouring of love and prayers from the Trinity and Manchester communities.”

The family has asked for privacy as they navigate this unimaginable loss, and plans for a public memorial and funeral service are currently underway.

A Community in Mourning

At a candlelight vigil held Monday evening on the school grounds, students gathered in prayer and reflection, many wearing Trinity purple and holding flowers in Lauren’s memory. Dozens shared stories of how she had impacted their lives. Her best friend, Kaylee Jennings, read a letter she had written to Lauren.

“Your smile made any bad day better. I don’t know how to walk these halls without you, but I promise we will carry your light with us,” she said through tears.

City leaders, including Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig, offered condolences and praised the strength of the Trinity community in rallying around one another. “Our hearts are with Lauren’s family, her classmates, and all who knew and loved her,” said Mayor Craig. “This is an unspeakable tragedy, and we are grieving alongside you.”

Looking Ahead

In the coming days, Trinity High School plans to dedicate a special space on campus in Lauren’s honor—a place for quiet reflection, prayer, and remembrance. School officials say they also plan to establish a scholarship fund in Lauren’s name, aimed at supporting young women pursuing careers in nursing or community service.

As the community continues to mourn, messages of support and sympathy have poured in from alumni, neighboring schools, and members of the Catholic Diocese.

Lauren Souza leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and promise. Though her time on this earth was far too short, those who knew her say she made an indelible impact.

“We will never forget her,” said Principal McAuliffe. “Lauren’s light lives on in each of us, and we will honor her by living as she did—with love, courage, and joy.”

Support services remain available to all Trinity students and families. The school’s counseling office can be reached at (603) 622-7987.