Following the heartbreaking news of the plane crash near Drum Inlet on Sunday, there’s been an outpouring of support from people all over Eastern North Carolina and beyond. It started with private individuals assisting the Coast Guard and other groups in the search efforts immediately following the crash, a vigil on Tuesday night, blue bows of support appearing on signposts and more.

On Wednesday, students and staff at area schools wore blue and gold to honor the East Carteret Mariners, and to show support for their loss, and Thursday, February 17 is “Camo Day”.

If you would like to make a monetary donation to assist the families with expenses incurred as a result of this tragic accident, a fund that has been approved by the families has been set up by The Core Sound Museum. Click here for more information.

From Down East News: Lookout Grocery in Smyrna is taking donations in the store. They are also accepting checks that can be made out to Angie Goodwin (Stephanie’s sister). These can be mailed to the store at 111 Marshallberg Road; Smyrna, NC 28579. If you prefer to Venmo, you can send it to Rylan Jones, Youth Pastor at Glad Tidings Church. His Venmo is @rylanjones and he asks that you put “Down East Boys” in the memo line. Surf Shack Eatery will be set up at Wheatly Boys beginning at 4:00 on Saturday. Go by their food truck for a delicious dinner. All proceeds will go to the families. They will also be taking donations. All proceeds from fundraisers will be divided amongst the families.

ECHS Athletic Boosters Club will be accepting cash donations Friday night at the home basketball game. There will also be a moment of silence and kids will be wearing camouflage in memory of their classmates.

We send our most sincere condolences to the families who lost loved ones, and the hope for peace and healing in their hearts.