Rocky River High School student killed, 2 more hurt in Mint Hill crash

MINT HILL, N.C. — Mint Hill police believe speed was a factor in a Monday morning crash that left one teenager dead and two others in critical condition.

The crash happened just after 8 a.m. on Allen Station Drive near Highway 51.

The victims were students at Rocky River High School, which is about one mile away from where the crash happened, according to a spokesperson with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

The Mint Hill Police Department said Monday afternoon that the victims were in a Honda Civic when it crashed into a tractor-trailer that was stopped on the far right side of the roadway.

Police said the Civic was wedged beneath the back of the tractor-trailer.

Jovany Escamilla-Salinas, 18, died, the district said.

The two other victims were identified as a 16-year-old girl and a 17-year-old girl. They were both reported to be in critical condition at Atrium Health Main.

Rocky River High had grief counselors on campus following the wreck.

“As a parent, it didn’t sit well,” said parent Eddie Catlin. “This was one of our first experiences with these types of things so when we get home we’re going talk about it.”

Rocky River High School sent the following statement to families on Monday:

“Rocky River High School families, this is Principal LeGrand with an important message.

Three of our students were involved in a car accident this morning. It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that one of our students died and the other two suffered serious injuries. We are heartbroken by this loss of life, and we grieve with the family and friends of our student. Our thoughts are prayers with the families and friends of all three students.

Sudden death and life-threatening injuries can be difficult for us to understand, especially with young people. We may feel a variety of emotions: shock, sadness, or confusion. What is most important is that we care for and support each other. The Crisis Response Team has made plans to respond to the emotional needs of all students. Counselors will be highly visible throughout the building and available to assist with grief counseling.

If your family has experienced a death or similar loss recently, this accident may bring up strong feelings. While this may be a normal experience, we want to provide assistance if needed. Please make your student’s teacher or our counselors aware if there is any additional information the school should be aware of so we can provide the support your student needs. This difficult time can be stressful and confusing. A sudden death may be disturbing to you as well as to your student. It is for this reason that we especially want you to know of our care and support.

Thank you for your continued support of Rocky River High School.”

This is a developing story; check wsoctv.com for updates.

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