By Emily D. Williams
Monday, February 2, would have been Jessica Lane Chambers’ 20th birthday.

The Courtland teen died December 6  after being found alive beside her burning car, with burns over 98 percent of her body.

Nine weeks after her death, officials are still seeking a break in the case which has gained national attention.

 Meanwhile, her family spreads awareness. They are asking the community to join them in a candlelight vigil/balloon release Saturday, January 31 at 5 p.m. at Sardis Lake Baptist Church..
“We don’t want people to forget her,” said Jessica’s mother, Lisa.

The reward for information leading to the arrest of whoever caused her death has now risen to $53,0000.

Federal and state agencies have joined the Panola County Sheriff’s Department and other local agencies in the investigation.

Her mother spoke of younger years in competitive cheerleading while at South Panola and how she loved the color pink.

“Her room is hot pink,” her mother grinned, then teared up as she explained why she chose pink and purple balloons to release during vigil honoring “her first birthday in heaven.”

Jessica’s parents, Ben Chambers and Lisa Daugherty Chambers, will release 20 balloons first, followed by friends and family.

Jessica’s mother urged anyone with information to please come forward to authorities.
“She loved everybody. I lost a part of me when she was taken from me,” Lisa said.

“She was such a loving child, we just want to know why,” Jessica’s aunt Judy Inman said.
Anyone with information concerning the incident should call Crimestoppers at 1-800-729-2169 or  the Sheriff’s Department at 662-563-6230.