It seemed as if the entire community was rooting for Lynza Henke, a Vernon girl who was placed on life support last month after being hit by a car in a crosswalk.

And now that the worst news has been confirmed, the community is showing overwhelming support to the 15-year-old’s family.

Vernon Teach and Learn, a long-standing community-focused business in Vernon run by Henke’s family, announced Henke’s death on Facebook.

“We enjoyed the 15 years with Lynza. She has gone to heaven and we will miss her very much. We are grateful for the prayers of many and the thoughts and kindness of so many. There will be a funeral and everyone is welcome,” the post said on Friday evening (August 16).

As of Saturday morning, more than 1,000 individuals and businesses had commented on the post and expressed their condolences over the tragedy.

“We are so sad to hear of the loss of your sweet angel. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Henke family,” wrote Teeter Totter Toys.

The Vernon Town Theatre wrote: “Our hearts are breaking. A beautiful soul gone too soon.”

Henke was hit by a truck on July 20 in a marked crosswalk while buying ingredients for her caramels. She was taken to BC Children’s Hospital in critical condition.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) of Vernon North Okanagan said they are investigating the collision.