Friends hold memorial for ex-Sammamish cheerleader: 'Dani lit up entire room'

SEATTLE -- Friends of former Sammamish cheerleading champ Danielle Cogswell gathered around a bonfire on Alki Beach Tuesday night to celebrate her life.

The 22-year-old was living her dream, cheering for one of the best squads in college at the University of Louisville. But she was found dead in her off-campus apartment Monday. The cause of death has not yet been determined, but police said there were no indications of foul play.



Friends who gathered on Alki Beach Tuesday night remembered her as having a bright personality.

"She was always happy, and made everyone smile," said Katlyn Whitten. "You never ever wanted to leave her when it was time to go."

While Cogswell's friends remember the person she was, they can’t help asking how someone so full of life could be gone.

"I’m still in shock, I don’t want to believe it," said Kalieghe Phillips, another friend gathered around the bonfire. "I don’t even believe that it’s real."

Dozens gather around Alki Beach bonfire Tuesday night to remember Dani Cogswell. (Photo: KCPQ-TV)