Overview
- An 18-year-old South Fork High School senior, identified as Christopher Brooks, died when his vehicle rear-ended a stopped dump truck outside the school near SW Pratt Whitney Road and Bulldog Way.
- Officials said the collision occurred the morning of Thursday as students were heading to graduation practice and that deputies and state troopers remain involved in the active investigation.
- School leaders confirmed the loss, said counseling services were being provided to students and staff, and decided to hold the evening graduation ceremony with a more somber tone.
- Classmates and family members were on scene shortly after the crash and one close friend, identified by officials as Brody Baker, was among the first to arrive; classmates described Brooks as a student-athlete and participant in the school’s veterinary program and bowling team.
- Roads in front of the school were blocked as investigators worked, a local memorial and cancellations of some post-graduation events were reported, and authorities have not yet released details about speed, distractions, or seatbelt use as they continue to gather evidence.