A member of the Altoona Area High School girls' soccer team reportedly died in a vehicle crash on Sunday, October 27, 2024, according to the Altoona Mirror. As per reports, the tragic incident occurred on the 10th Avenue expressway just past Ninth Street in Altoona, Pennsylvania, early Sunday morning.
The police, Blair County Coroner Ray Benton, and Altoona Area School District spokeswoman Paula Foreman confirmed a high school girls' varsity soccer player was killed in the crash.
According to the police, the crash occurred shortly after 4 a.m. on Sunday. They said it was a single-vehicle crash that killed a teen on the spot. Although it is reported that there were two other occupants in the vehicle, the police declined to provide further details on their identity and whether they were hurt.
School District spokeswoman Paula Foreman told the outlet the school would provide extra counseling on Monday for those who need it. Foreman also extended condolence to the teen’s family, writing:
“It’s a tragic loss.”
While community members and various blog posts identified the teen killed in the crash, we will not be disclosing their name out of respect for the family's privacy.
Community mourns as teen killed in Altoona car accident
Members took to social media to pay tribute to the late soccer player. According to posts on Facebook, the victim was a talented player for the Altoona High School Girls Varsity Soccer Team.
The police department had announced they were investigating a fatal crash in the area of 10th Ave and 9th St. The post read:
“The Altoona Police Department and Pennsylvania State Police are currently investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash that occurred this morning shortly after 4:00 am in the area of 10th Ave and 9th St.”
Several community members who knew the victim expressed their grief over the incident. Member Emmet Allen wrote:
“Our family is very devastated over the loss of this beautiful young girl..Keep them in your prayers..”She is with her Aunt Justine now..
Lori Simmons, whose son appeared to know the victim, added:
“My son Malachi is so torn up over this it's so sad my condolences go out to the parents and everyone that knew them.”
Another social media user noted:
“So very sorry for the family of the deceased. My heart goes out to them.”
Meanwhile, a friend, Hailey Maher, penned a touching tribute on Facebook recounting their wonderful childhood. She said:
“Rest in peace sweet girl. I’ll always remember jumping on your trampoline. Riding our bikes together. Playing house with your little sister in the yard. You’ll be missed by so much sweet girl. Thank you for all the loving memories you have given me growing up.”
Police have yet to identify the teen killed in the crash. We will provide an update when it becomes available.