A 17-year-old driver was killed and five teenage passengers were injured in a single-vehicle crash Saturday night in Franklin County, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.
Juan Alvarado Vazquez, a senior at Bunn High School, was driving an SUV when it crossed the center line, ran off the road and struck a tree.
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Vazquez, also known as Wavy, died at the scene. Five passengers, all 17 or 18 years old, were taken to the hospital. They are all expected to recover, according to the State Highway Patrol.
The crash happened just before 11 p.m. on eastbound N.C. 98 at Bethlehem Church Road.
Investigators do not suspect alcohol was a factor in the crash.
The Bunn High School principal sent the following message to students and families:
The loss of a student is heartbreaking and impacts an entire school community. We know Juan's passing will be deeply felt by his classmates, friends, teachers, coaches and all those who knew and cared for him.
Grief counselors will be at Bunn High School throughout the week for those who need support.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help his family with funeral expenses.