Bayport, New York — The vibrant hues of pink ribbons decorated trees outside a local dance studio, a heartfelt tribute to Emily Finn, a talented young dancer whose life was tragically cut short. Friends gathered Saturday to honor her memory, expressing their grief over a loss that has left an indelible mark on their lives and the community.
Finn, a recent graduate of Sayville High School, was just beginning her journey as a teaching student at SUNY Oneonta when she was fatally shot Wednesday, allegedly by her ex-boyfriend, Austin Lynch. The incident occurred at Lynch’s home, where Finn had gone to return personal items. After the shooting, Lynch reportedly turned the gun on himself but survived. He is expected to face second-degree murder charges, according to police reports.
In a show of solidarity, three of Finn’s friends — Katelyn Guterwill, 18; Brynne Ballan, 18; and Maya Truglio, 16 — are planning to get matching tattoos to commemorate their friendship. The tattoos will symbolize their group chat, affectionately named “oh sugar,” a testament to the bond they shared. “She was just the best person ever,” Ballan said, grappling with the harsh reality of Finn’s absence.
Gatherings for Finn’s wake and funeral are planned for Sunday and Monday, respectively, offering an opportunity for friends and family to come together in mourning. The community feels the loss deeply; the girls describe rituals filled with laughter and camaraderie, from trips to the mall to beach outings. “We did everything together. It’s hard to think of life without her,” Guterwill reflected.
Finn’s passion for dance was evident to all who knew her. She played the lead role in her studio’s production of “The Nutcracker” last year and was known as the go-to person for support backstage. Guterwill recounted a memory, saying, “If I needed help putting on a costume, Emily was always there.”
Finn’s loved ones described her as someone who lived life fully, making kindness and creativity her trademarks. Ballan noted Finn’s talent for baking and craft projects, recalling her as “the most patient person I ever met.” Such memories paint a vivid picture of a young woman whose spirit touched everyone around her.
The local dance community plans to dedicate this year’s “Nutcracker” performances to Finn, a gesture intended to help her peers begin the healing process. “The kids are very, very sad. They lost a wonderful dancing peer and a best friend,” said Lanora Truglio, whose daughter will dance in the role Finn once held. “We’re all coming together to keep Emily’s spirit alive,” she added.
As the three friends return to the Bayport studio, they carry Finn’s memory forward in their hearts. They expressed a commitment to celebrate her legacy in their lives, asserting that her influence will endure in everything they do. “We’ll continue to live for her,” Truglio said, echoing the sentiments shared by her friends.
Embodying that spirit, Ballan also has a tattoo that reads “Love, Emmie,” copied from a note written by Finn. This personal homage captures the lasting impact Finn had on those closest to her, a reminder that, in their journey ahead, she will always be with them.