BUNKIE, La. (KALB) - The Bunkie community came together Monday night to remember 16-year-old Olivia Novakowski , who died in a car crash on August 18.

Family, friends, and classmates gathered at Bunkie Magnet High School for a candlelight vigil, honoring the teen described as “a light” with a smile that could brighten any room.

Olivia’s aunt, Kathy Boudreaux, said her niece had big dreams for the future. She was preparing to take dual enrollment classes this year and hoped to become a NICU nurse.

“She was just so intelligent, just bright and beautiful,” Boudreaux said.

To honor her memory, Olivia’s family has created the Olivia Novakowski Grace & Grit Scholarship , designed to help other students pursue their education.

For Olivia’s best friend, Jayla Brown, the loss is especia

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