Officials honor teenager with blood drive

PETAL, Miss. - United Blood Services held a blood drive Wednesday at city hall in honor of a teenager who passed away a few years ago.

Shane Smith died in a car accident on July 24, 2015 on Highway 589 when he was a freshman in high school. His mother, Amanda Atwood said this blood drive was established for those who knew Shane to come out and show their support for him, and to also become heroes.

"You never know when it's going to be your child, your mother, your husband, your family member. I urge you to go out and give (blood) because you never know when it's going to be your loved one that needs someone to be their hero," said Atwood.

Atwood said Shane played defensive end for Pearl River Central's varsity team, and was a fun, God-loving person who cared for everyone.

The next blood drive that is in honor of Shane Smith will be Friday at Pearl River Central High School from 10-3 p.m.