Top Stories

Penn Hills senior honors boyfriend killed in crash

From a hospital gown and neck brace, to a prom dress and corsage, Alexis Rhone has lived out a senior year that at times she wishes she could forget.

The Penn Hill senior was injured and her boyfriend Donovan Baynes was killed in a car crash in January, and she admits she has gone through some incredibly dark times.

"A lot of negative energy. A lot of not wanting to be here without him. It was depressing," Rhone said.

TRENDING NOW:

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE NEWS APP

Rodi Road is a chilling reminder of where she lost the love of her life, but she's forever grateful for the Penn Hills Community's support, especially Thursday night -- prom night.

"It's still something that hasn't gone away yet with the loss of my love and everything."

The prom has become a celebration, not just of survival but of the life and legacy of Donovan. Rhone is taking A.J. DiNatale, a senior at Penn Hills, and Donovan's first cousin.

PHOTOS: Penn Hills senior honors boyfriend killed in crash 

"This is definitely a big part of his memory. … This is his best friend since birth: so if anyone knows him as well as I do, it's this guy,” Rhone said of DiNatale.

Although she admits a piece of her is missing, she says she now has a guardian angel watching over her and a high school sweetheart she will forever cherish.

"We miss him dearly. Every day. He just helps us and gives us strength to keep moving forward. I miss him and I love him,” she said.

Fritz Kummer, who is from out of state and runs HonorsToProms.org, saw Channel 11 News’ initial story and paid for Rhone’s prom dress, shoes, hairstyle and nails. Kummer also paid the bill for all Penn Hills students’ prom tickets.

PREVIOUS STORIES: