Alpharetta school plans vigil for former teacher, family killed in boat crash
SAVANNAH, Ga. - An Alpharetta Christian school is planning a prayer service after the sudden deaths of a former history teacher, his wife and two sons.
Chris Leffler, his wife Lori and their sons Nate and Zach died from injuries in a boating crash that happened on the Wilmington River near Savannah on Saturday, the Department of Natural Resources confirmed. Robert Steven Chauncey, 37, of Savannah also died in the crash.
Chris and Lori Leffler's daughter, Katie, received treatment at a hospital. Family shared a link on an online fundraiser to support Katie Leffler.
Since the crash, a man was charged with boating under the influence.
Two people were found dead on the day of the crash, according to officials. Three more bodies were recovered on Sunday.
Chris Leffler, a victim in a deadly boat crash on the Wilmington River near Savannah.
LAW ENFORCEMENT FOCUS ON RECKLESS DRIVING, BOATING ON MEMORIAL DAY
Spurka said the Upper School in Alpharetta would hold a prayer service at 6 p.m. Tuesday.
"I was heartbroken when I heard what had happened. It’s one of those things that’s surreal," Edward Spurka said.
Spurka’s relationship with the family dates back years. Spurka said Chris moved to Savannah to teach at another school in January. Leffler’s son, Nate, just finished Junior year and joined his family in Savannah around spring break.
Spurka said they would provide information on how to support the family and the school is planning for grief counselors to support mourners at the school.
"I think what I learned from Chris is you live every day with the gift God gave you and with the air in your lungs and what’s in front of you and you don’t take things for granted," Spurka said.
Leffler was a teacher and fifth- and sixth-grade football coach at Calvary Day School in Savannah, according to the school's website.
Christopher Stegall
Mark Christopher Stegall, 45, has been charged with boating under the influence, Mark McKinnon of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources told WSAV-TV.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.