Mom Says Murdered Wayland Teen "Was Stolen From Us All Too Soon"
WAYLAND (CBS) - For the first time, the mother of a teenager murdered in Wayland is sharing the pain of that loss.
She was a beautiful 18-year-old high school graduate with her whole life in front of her. But, Lauren Astley's body was pulled from a marsh on Monday.
Lauren's mother, Mary Dunne, is now sharing her feelings about what happened with a written statement.
"Lauren was my only child, a beautiful, bright, charismatic young woman who filled my life, and many others, with joy for 18 years. Lauren was stolen from us all too soon and we may never understand why this happened and how anyone, especially someone who was supposed to care for her, could do this," said Dunne, in the statement.
WBZ-TV's Jonathan Elias reports.
She's referring to Lauren's ex-boyfriend, 18-year-old Nathaniel Fujita, who now stands accused of killing her. The crime has her mother in shock, wondering how this could have happened and why.
"I will wake up daily to the awful pain of her absence, but will also search the sky nightly for the glittering star she has become. We will continue to grieve for the tremendous loss of Lauren and continue to request privacy at this very difficult time," said Dunne, in the statement.
View: Signs Missed In Murder Of Young Woman In Wayland?
Lauren's father has said he's been in touch with Fujita's parents and they have shared their anguish.
Lauren's memorial and a celebration of her life will be held a week from Saturday in Wayland.
