Libertyville Cross Country Team Donates Money to Drozdz Family

The and boys cross country teams paused in the middle of their meet Monday afternoon at Lakewood Forest Preserve to present a special gift to the family of Gabriella "Gabby" Drozdz.

The Libertyville team gave the family — Gabby's brother Scott Grzelak, sister Ilona Gregory and mom Teresa Drozdz — a $200 check for the Remembering Gabby Drozdz Fund.

"When someone in the community experiences a tragedy, it affects all of us," said Libertyville Coach Mark Buesing. He said one of the athletes suggested holding a collection drive.

. The driver of the vehicle has not yet been identified.

Gabby's mom and sister wiped away tears as they received the donation from the cross country team.

"Thank all of you for doing this," Grzelak said. "Stuff like this really brings home the community feel, that people are there for us. We appreciate you guys doing this."

Grzelak said the money will contribute to the .

"Ultimately somebody knows something," Grzelak said.

Teresa Drozdz brought along a photo of Gabby that was taken by a friend just two hours before Gabby died.

"Obviously, our family is very grateful," Teresa said, with Gregory translating from their native Polish. Teresa added that "you don't expect this kind of outpouring of love and support."

Lake County Crime Stoppers is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. . The vehicle being sought is a GMC Safari or Chevrolet Astro van from model years 1985-94.

Anyone with information on this vehicle is asked to call Lake County Crime Stoppers at: 847-662-2222.