The family of Molly Conley, 15, of Seattle, released this statement Monday:
Our daughter and sister Molly Conley was shot and killed June 1 in Lake Stevens while celebrating her 15th birthday with friends. As this tragedy unfolds we ask the media and public to recall the beauty, grace and love that is Molly. She inspired classmates, inspired teammates and opponents, and inspired her family to live better lives, to find hope in the midst of hardship, and to play the game — whether soccer, lacrosse, or life — with enthusiasm, determination, and joy. She is the reason we are here today, and it is her life, more than her death, that we hope people will remember; since it is her life that was so amazing.
The violence that took her life and the circumstances that caused another human being to commit such an act are compelling and all want to understand it. As this aspect of Molly’s story is examined do not lose sight of our daughter and sister; continue to honor her and present her shining example.
We thank the media for respecting our privacy and grieving. We are grateful to the Snohomish County Sheriff’s Department, especially detective Brad Pince and Undersheriff Tom Davis, for their ongoing dedication and kindness to us during this horrific time. Their efforts bring great relief to our family and the Lake Stevens community. We are grateful for the outpouring of support from Lake Stevens and surrounding communities whose contributions toward Molly have been so helpful.
We continue to appreciate the generosity and love shown to us by our friends and relatives, our Magnolia and Kenmore communities, and all those that loved Molly and have been inspired by her beautiful life.
— Susan Arksey, John, Tara, Johnny Conley, Mathew Arksey
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