BEL AIR, Md. — The C. Milton Wright High School community is grieving after a devastating car accident on September 18, 2025, claimed the life of Zach Griffin, a beloved student remembered for his kindness, energy, and bright future.

The crash, which also involved Griffin’s girlfriend, Blake Elliott, has left classmates, teachers, and families across Bel Air in shock. While Elliott continues to recover, the loss of Zach has created an immeasurable void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.

Friends and family describe Zach as a young man with an infectious smile, a passion for sports, and an unwavering ability to lift others up. His presence, they say, could brighten any room, making him not only a dedicated student but a cherished friend to many.

In the wake of his passing, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support the Griffin family with funeral expenses and to honor Zach’s memory. The fundraiser has already received an outpouring of support, with tributes and donations pouring in from classmates, neighbors, and community members who were touched by his life.

Harford County Public Schools has extended its condolences to the Griffin family, announcing that grief counselors will be available for students coping with the tragedy. Teachers and administrators praised Zach’s character, recalling the lasting impression he made on peers and mentors alike.

Vigils and memorials are now being planned by friends and classmates, offering spaces for the community to gather, reflect, and honor Zach’s life.

Though his time was cut tragically short, Zach Griffin’s memory lives on in the countless lives he touched. His story has inspired an outpouring of love, unity, and resilience across Bel Air—a testament to the impact of a young man who will never be forgotten.

For now, the community holds tight to cherished memories, mourning the loss of a son, friend, student, and light whose legacy will continue to shine.