CARLSBAD, Calif. (KGTV) — More than two months after the stabbing death of a Carlsbad grandmother on a hiking trail, a campaign is now underway to honor her memory.
Theresa Dooley did not know Lisa Thorborg, but the discovery of Thorborg’s body on Hosp Grove trail in November haunted her.
"It really hit me hard. I’m a runner and a hiker. I would also run Hosp Grove trail myself ... Just shock, horror, and sadness," said Dooley.
In December, a teenage suspect was arrested, accused of stabbing Thorborg to death. Just weeks prior, Dooley and others had organized a hike they called, "Finish Lisa’s Walk," with more than 100 people turning out.
Dooley is now hoping to draw upon that same community support to honor Thorborg’s memory.
"I think a bench in her honor in a park would be a great memorial. She loved the outdoors, loved to hike and loved sunsets," said Dooley.
Dooley says Thorborg’s family gave their approval for a memorial bench. Dooley initially thought about Hosp Grove Trail.
"When I talked to Lisa’s family, they said, 'We would prefer not to have it as Hosp. Prefer to have it in the new park, a happier place to remember her,'" said Dooley.
Dooley and the family decided on Buena Vista Reservoir Park in Carlsbad, due to open sometime this spring. She says city officials were receptive to the idea.
"I thought it would be great to place a memorial bench in her honor so people can sit and reflect, and also celebrate Lisa’s life," said Dooley.
The life of a beloved grandmother and recent transplant from Oregon will soon be remembered by a community she called her new home.
"Lisa was a part of us. She was a part of our Carlsbad family and didn’t deserve this. I think for other people, this will be a way for them to heal as well," said Dooley.
Dooley says the family will work with the city on the inscription on the bench. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to raise the money needed for the bench.
