Girls mentored by fallen officer Jennifer Sebena honor her memory

WAUWATOSA (WITI) -- Tuesday, December 24th will mark the one year anniversary of the death of Wauwatosa police officer Jennifer Sebena. Before being killed, Sebena was a role model working with a group of teenage girls who plan to honor her legacy.

"She was the most fun-loving, caring, energetic person that you would ever meet," said Maggie Ross. "She became the person who cared more than anybody else about what was going on in my life."

Ross met Sebena four years ago through Elmbrook Church. Sebena was a youth leader for a dozen teenage girls. Ross, now a freshman at Edgewood College in Madison, says she's preparing for the heartbreaking anniversary of Sebena's death.

Sebena was shot multiple times outside a Wauwatosa fire station. Her husband eventually pleaded guilty to the crime.

"It was definitely the hardest week of my life," said Ross. "I am not looking forward to the 24th, or that week."

Ross, and other girls who considered Sebena a mentor, are planning an event to keep her memory alive -- and to make the somber milestone a bit more bearable. The group is raising funds to help teens served by the Child Protection Center.

"I think anything that we do that brings a light to God and just brings a light to the community, she would be more than proud of," said Ross. "She definitely has a smile on her face up in heaven."

Ross is specifically fundraising to make blankets for teenagers at the center. Other girls involved are holding a bake sale at the State St. Pick 'N Save in Wauwatosa this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.