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A Startling Discovery
As officers conducted their investigation, they made a discovery that added a painful layer to the tragedy: the teen was found holding her mobile phone at the time of the crash. Authorities believe distracted driving may have played a role, though the investigation remains ongoing.
Police emphasized that no conclusions have been finalized, but they confirmed the phone was active, suggesting the teen may have been texting or using the device moments before impact.
A Life Cut Short
Friends and family described the teen as kind, energetic, and full of promise. A makeshift memorial has formed near the crash site, with flowers, handwritten notes, and candles honoring a life lost far too soon.
“She had plans, dreams, and a whole future ahead of her,” a family friend said. “It’s impossible to understand how this happened.”
The school district released a statement offering condolences and counseling services for students affected by the incident.
A Broader Warning
Safety advocates say the tragedy underscores the dangers of distracted driving, particularly among young drivers. According to traffic safety experts, even a momentary glance at a phone can have fatal consequences.
“Distraction doesn’t just affect the driver — it affects everyone around them,” a transportation safety official noted.
Local police are urging drivers of all ages to put phones away while behind the wheel, stressing that no message is worth a life.
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