A Cup in Memory
The University of Maryland, Baltimore County and Loyola University Maryland have teamed up to launch the Blake Elliott Cup, a soccer tournament that honors the memory of 16‑year‑old Blake Elliott, who was killed in a September 2025 crash on Route 542 in Harford County.
Elliott was a passenger in a vehicle waiting to turn onto Route 543 when another car struck her. The driver responsible, John Gaeta, pleaded guilty to negligence and received a three‑year prison sentence, a outcome that has drawn sharp criticism from State’s Attorney Alison Healey, who argues Maryland’s negligence statutes are too lenient for distracted drivers.
Investigators revealed that Gaeta’s phone data showed he was using multiple apps moments before the collision, underscoring the growing danger of in‑car distractions. The incident has reignited a statewide debate over how the justice system addresses vehicular negligence.
Rob and Belinda Elliott, former UMBC and Loyola soccer players, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from their community. They have channeled their grief into action, establishing The Blake Griffin 3 Foundation, which seeks to promote kindness, youth athletics, and assistance for animals and families in need.
A vigil held at C. Milton Wright High School, where Blake once played, brought together students, teammates, and local residents to celebrate her life. Six other students were taken to a nearby hospital as a precaution, but none suffered serious injuries.
Beyond the tournament, the Elliott family’s foundation and the community’s advocacy have placed pressure on state legislators to reconsider sentencing guidelines for distracted‑driving offenses. Lawmakers from the Maryland General Assembly have indicated they will explore stricter penalties in upcoming sessions.