Franklin, Tennessee (AP) – A tragic incident in Franklin, Tennessee has left the community in mourning after a recent high school graduate, Lily Basil, was accidentally shot and killed by 18-year-old Matthew Roufail. The shooting occurred when Roufail, believing his AR-15 style rifle to be unloaded, fired the gun, striking Basil in the right shoulder.
Basil, who had just graduated from Page High School, was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center but sadly succumbed to her injuries. Roufail has since been charged with criminal homicide and released on a $150,000 bond. Authorities report that the shooting was deemed unintentional by Roufail.
In response to the tragic event, the community has come together to honor Basil’s memory, with the high school offering grief counseling sessions for students. Page High School principal Dr. Katie Hill described Basil as a bright light, deeply respected, kind, and sweet.
Friends of Basil have taken to social media to express their sorrow and pay tribute to their lost friend. Sophia Debruler and Avery Jett shared heartfelt messages, remembering Basil for the laughter, memories, and love she brought to their lives. The community plans to remember Basil by lighting candles or turning on porch lights in her memory on Friday evening.
The loss of Lily Basil has deeply impacted those who knew her, with the community grieving the untimely passing of a young life filled with promise and light. As the investigation into the shooting continues, friends and family remember Basil for her kindness, respect, and the positive impact she had on those around her.