ROCHESTER, Minn. - A mother and her young daughter were laid to rest in Rochester Thursday nearly two weeks after a violent crash on Highway 14 near Claremont,.
Rachel Harberts and eight-year-old Emerson died after they were hit by what authorities are calling a distracted driver September 7.
Emerson died at the scene, while her mom died a week later after family members decided to take her off life support. Rachel's 12-year-old son Jaxon Harberts survived, but is still in the hospital recovering from his injuries. He is expected to make a full recovery.
Hundreds of mourners gathered inside the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Rochester on a dreary day, the weather reflecting what many were feeling. "I still don't even believe it. Even going through the whole entire day. It seems surreal," said Kaitlyn Harberts, the victim's sister-in-law.
A joint service was held for the mother and daughter, with the turnout so big that every parking spot at the church was filled. Blooming Prairie Public Schools, where Harberts was a first grade teacher, canceled classes so that students and staff could attend the service.
Even those who didn't personally know the victims came out to support those who did. "When I was sitting at home and thinking about the accident, my spirit compelled me to go out and support the family and friends," said Charles Jackson, who's putting together a memorial for Rachel and Emerson at the crash scene this Saturday at 4:30.
After the service, Rachel and Emerson were taken to their final resting place at Oakwood Cemetery, just two miles from the church.
"It's going to take a lot of time to process and really get over the situation that happened," added Kaitlyn.
Closure hasn't happened for the family yet, but knowing that 12-year-old Jaxon survived gives them hope to press on. "Being able to focus on Jaxon and focus on his recovery gives us all that much more peace of mind."
The family has set up a GoFundMe page to help cover Jaxon's medical costs. Click here if you'd like to donate.