High school graduate murdered by person who mistakenly believed gun was not loaded.

It's a tragic and heartbreaking story that has left an entire community reeling. Lily Basil, a recent graduate of Page High School, was shot and killed just one day after receiving her diploma. The perpetrator behind this senseless act is none other than 18-year-old Matthew Roufail, who claimed he didn't realize the AR-15-style rifle he was handling was loaded.

The events unfolded on a Saturday, a day that should have been filled with celebration and joy for Lily. Instead, the police received a frantic 911 call from someone who claimed they were rushing Lily to the hospital for a gunshot wound to her shoulder. Emergency responders were immediately dispatched to the scene, but sadly, Lily passed away from her injuries at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

As detectives arrived at the location of the shooting, they quickly identified Matthew Roufail as a person of interest. Witnesses reported that he had fled the scene and gone to a hospital. Upon questioning, Roufail admitted to shooting Lily, but he insisted that he thought the rifle was unloaded. This revelation only added to the shock and disbelief surrounding this tragedy.

Lily's death has devastated not only her family and friends, but also the entire Page High School community. She was described as a bright light, known for her kindness, sweetness, and respectfulness. The school's principal, Dr. Katie Hill, shared her memories of Lily, stating that she had quickly become a beloved member of the Page family and a friend to everyone she met.

In the wake of this tragedy, the school is planning to honor Lily's memory with a celebration of her life at a local church. They have also invited the community to participate in a sunset memorial for her, asking people to light candles, luminaries, or porch lights in her honor. It's a small gesture, but one that holds a powerful message of love and remembrance for Lily.

As the investigation continues and justice is sought for Lily's death, it's important to remember that she was not the only young graduate to lose their life in such a tragic way. Just a year before, a 22-year-old college graduate from Ohio lost his life in a freak accident while working on a car. It serves as a reminder to cherish every moment and to hold our loved ones close, for we never know what tomorrow may bring.

But for now, the community mourns the loss of a bright and promising young life. Lily Basil will forever be remembered for the light she brought into the world and the impact she had on those around her. May she rest in peace.

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