Overview
- Christopher Brooks, 18, was driving to an 8:30 a.m. graduation rehearsal when his car rear-ended a dump truck at SW Pratt Whitney Road and SW Bulldog Way and he died at the scene.
- Martin County deputies initially responded and announced the Florida Highway Patrol will take over the active crash investigation to determine speed, any distraction and whether a seatbelt was worn.
- Sheriff John Budensiek said investigators believe Brooks may have been distracted but have not identified a specific cause and they are still evaluating vehicle speed and restraint use.
- School leaders held the scheduled graduation that evening with an empty, decorated chair to honor Brooks, provided counseling for students and staff, and organizers canceled Project Graduation.
- Friends and family described Brooks as active in school and community programs, and the sudden loss has left classmates dealing with trauma and prompting local calls for caution when driving.