The following letter from the family of one of the young men who died in an automobile accident in June has been received for publication.

To the Newtown Community,

The compassion of Newtown knows no boundaries. After our families were informed of the unbelievable tragedy, the Zuvanich and Gregory families were wrapped in the love and generosity of our community. We were comforted in our unspeakable grief with food, flowers, hugs, written words of love, and the simplicity of others’ silent presence.

Special thanks to Vicky at Spadaccino Funeral Home. Her unique blend of warmth and guidance with necessary decisions was remarkable. My needs as a grieving mom were completely honored. Valley Presbyterian Church was by my side immediately and continues to support me with this unknown path.

My colleagues with the Newtown Public Schools have left me speechless. Philip, along with my daughters graduated from the Newtown school system. So MANY of his teachers reached out to me and spoke of Philip as a person — not just a student. As a teacher at Newtown High, my coworkers provided words of comfort as a colleague, a friend, and a grieving mother. My SPED Department colleagues are unmatched in their genuine spirit of love and care.

Ingersoll Automotive employed Philip for a little over a year. It seemed every employee attended Phil’s visitation. It was a sea of blue-shirted Ingersoll lot attendants, mechanics, and all the other support team members that Phil worked with, including Todd.

My final and biggest thank you goes to the Sandler family. From the moment we were given the devastating news, they rushed to our side. They held us, fed us, and continue to be the solace we need. We are forever grateful.

To all of those who supported us in every way imaginable — thank you.

The Zuvanich Family

Chestnut Hill Road, Sandy Hook August 6, 2019