Tributes pour in for slain Toms River teen

Friends, teachers and loved ones are trying to come to terms with the seemingly senseless death of a teenage girl allegedly strangled to death by her cousin. A growing memorial is being built outside

News 12 Staff

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Mar 20, 2008, 11:41 PM

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Updated 6,021 days ago

Friends, teachers and loved ones are trying to come to terms with the seemingly senseless death of a teenage girl allegedly strangled to death by her cousin.

A growing memorial is being built outside the home where 15-year-old Brittany Cena was found dead Tuesday. Friends have also built a Myspace memorial page to post farewell messages and tributes.

Cena was a sophomore at Toms River High School North. The school's principal called the girl a pleasure to have in class, while fellow students say she'll be remembered for her infectious laugh.

"She was nice to everyone," says Steven Goodfriend. "If you heard her laugh, you'd laugh too ? she's going to heaven, I know for a fact."

Friends say they're having trouble dealing with the tragedy.

"Tears everywhere," says Nicole Robertello, a friend of the Cena's. "There's not a day that's gone by so far that you didn't see everyone crying."

Garry Ziglich Jr., Cena's 24-year-old cousin, has been charged with her murder.

Police: Man strangled teen cousin to death