Father of slain student joins UNH in remembrance

DURHAM, N.H. (WHDH) -- The father of University of New Hampshire student, Lizzi Marriott, joined over 200 people at the school Thursday in memory of Marriott, whom investigators said was killed by an acquaintance.

Bob Marriott, the victim’s father, spoke at the podium. He said, “She wanted to go here so bad and was so very happy when she started classes here. We are all so sad at this tragedy.”

As part of the reflection on Lizzi’s life, a recording of her singing was played and her admission essay to UNH was read. Lizzi Marriott was a marine biology major and a sophomore at UNH.

Family and friends, including high school classmates attended the ceremony in her remembrance.

“She was the kindest, most vibrant person,” said friend, Carli Barnes.

As her life was celebrated at her university, investigators continued looking for her body in part of a search that has been focused on the waters around Peirce Island off of Portsmouth, N.H.

Seth Mazzaglia, 29, is accused of strangling or suffocating the 19-year-old in his apartment last week. A New Hampshire newspaper reported that Lizzi may have died during a sexual encounter.

“No matter what comes out, she didn’t volunteer for this,” said Lisa Barnes, a family friend.

“God bless you all and thank you for caring about my daughter,” said Bob Marriott to all in attendance.