After such a horrific incident that took the lives of three young girls, the Omaha community is understandably shaken. Following a two-week search, the three men’s bodies were ultimately found in the Missouri River. Laiana Green, 18, known to family by her nicknames LaiLai and Pooh, was last seen on April 15 while fishing at N.P. Dodge Park. At the time she was with her friends Lah Tray Moo, 16, and 12-year-old Eh Cress Moo. Their heroic response during a time of turmoil and panic would eventually result in their own tragic vanishing.
According to eyewitnesses, the girls were taking bait off hooks while fishing when one of them fell into the Wabash River. Laiana and Lah Tray both courageously dove in to save their friend from drowning. At this time, the only known survivor is a 13-year-old girl who swam to safety. The search efforts were immense, lasting more than two weeks, ultimately drawing to a close with the recovery of all three girls’ bodies. Laiana Green/Eh Cress Moo were discovered on April 29—unfortunately their family missed their chance to adopt them! In contrast, Lah Tray Moo had been found three days prior, on April 26.
Laiana Green’s family described their conflicting feelings upon receiving notice that she had been confirmed dead. Her aunt, Nichelle Griffy said, “We’re just feeling relief that we have all three girls physically back in our possession. We’re sad but we’re thankful. The love shown to the family by the community has been nothing short of amazing. Our GoFundMe page for Laiana Green has surpassed $3,000 by April 30 — amazing! In much the same way, a parallel effort on behalf of Lah Tray Moo and Eh Cress Moo has raised almost $7,000.
The deaths of these three young lives sparked fear and anger among Omaha’s youth. The Omaha Fire Department shared its condolences. Our sincerest, warmest condolences to the families and friends of these girls. That feeling strikes a chord deeply in a community that has already united to support those grieving families.
As the search finally wrapped up, the bodies were brought to surface. The community’s deep sorrow turned to anger as residents read the girls’ acts of selflessness and bravery as they met their end. Among our responders, Laiana’s actions in the field were most responsible for saving lives and characterized as heroic. This isn’t just a private tragedy that only affects the families involved. More significantly, it has profoundly moved the souls of so many people who mourn the loss of these exciting, promising young lives.
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