by Emily Luxen
WHITE BLUFF, Tenn. - A community continues to rally around a White Bluff teenager fighting for his life after being hit by a train.
The baseball field at Creek Wood High School was transformed Friday into a site for a vigil for 18-year-old Drew Smithson. Family members, friends and other members of the community came together to pray, sing and show their support for Drew and his family.
"We just want to let everyone know, let the family know that we love them," said organizer Angie McCoy. "We all love Drew."
Smithson was driving his Ford F-150 across railroad tracks at White Bluff Road near Highway 70 Wednesday when he was struck by a CSX train and dragged down the tracks. He was rushed to Vanderbilt University Medical Center with serious injuries.
He was still listed in critical condition Friday.
"We know he's going to make it," said Ruth Williams, Drew's Grandmother. "It may take awhile, but he is such a strong young man."
While Drew may have a lengthy recovery process ahead of him, his friends wanted him to know they will be behind him every step of the way.
"We really miss him," said friend Drew Aldridge. "We hope he gets better soon so we can hang out again."
"I haven't been able to sleep at night thinking about him," said friend Drew McCoy. "I just hope he will be okay."
Friends have also organized a benefit softball tournament for Drew June 15-16 at the Tennsco field in Dickson. They said they will continue to raise money and help out for as long as they are needed.
Email: eluxen@newschannel5.com
