Classmates of four North Dakota State University students from the Twin Cities who were killed on an icy, snowy stretch of Interstate 94 near Alexandria last February are making plans to honor them.
Luke Brodeur, president of the school's student body, said students hope to plant a tree in memory of each of the four women who were killed when their car crossed a median and was struck by an SUV.
Lauren Peterson, 18, of Prior Lake, Jordan Playle, 19, of Elk River, Megan Sample, 18, of Rogers, and Danielle Renninger, 18, of Excelsior, died in the crash, which occurred as the women headed back to school following a holiday weekend.
"We feel it is our responsibility to honor all students that are lost, and this will be a great way to ensure that their memory will last," Brodeur said.
Weather permitting, students will plant the trees this spring. A plaque with the student's name and hometown will be placed at the base of each tree.
"My hope is that it will be a chance for all of us to stop and appreciate the many blessings we have as healthy students here at NDSU," Brodeur said.
