A 16-year-old Three Rivers girl died Monday as a result of a car vs. pedestrian crash in Fabius Township, according to the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department.
Details related to the incident are scant but officials say deputies were dispatched to the scene of the accident just before 10:30 p.m. on Monday, September 26 along US 131 near Broadway Road in Fabius Township. The particulars of the crash were not made available to the media but authorities say the teen succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash, and her name is not being released pending family notification. The driver of vehicle was uninjured.
Anyone who may have been a witness to this traffic incident is asked to contact Sgt. Brandon Dahl at (269) 467-9045 ext. 311.
Deputies were assisted at the scene by the Three Rivers Police Department, Three Rivers Fire Department, Fabius Park Fire Department, Shears Wrecker Service, and the St Joseph County Victim Services Unit.
Alek Haak-Frost is executive editor and publisher of Watershed Voice.
UPDATE, 2:49 p.m.: In an email to parents regarding this incident, Three Rivers High School Principal Carrie Balk said the following:
Dear Parents/Guardians,
It is with great sadness that I write to inform you about the unexpected death by suicide of Three Rivers HS sophomore, (REDACTED FOR PRIVACY by WSV). Students and staff at Three Rivers High School were made aware of her unexpected passing during 3rd hour today. Our teachers and staff have provided understanding, support and flexibility to the many students struggling with this loss. Crisis support is currently in place, and will continue to be in place for students who need additional or ongoing support.
To help prepare you for your student’s arrival home after school, we encourage open communication about this situation and would like to offer guidance on discussing death and grieving. We know that grief is a highly personal experience, and everyone copes in their own way. Please know that we are here for students, and that our school community is a safe place to seek assistance, share feelings, or simply find solace in the company of others. If, after talking with your child, you believe that your student would benefit from additional support through the school, please contact me directly. As an additional resource, please know that the Michigan Crisis Access Line offers free and confidential support 7 days a week, 24 hours a day for people in distress. Simply Call or Text 988 to be immediately connected with a trained crisis counselor. Encourage your student to use this resource to convey concerns related to their own mental health, or that of others who may be struggling.
We understand that no amount of words can alleviate the pain the family, staff, and students are feeling at this moment. Wildcats, please lean on one another for strength and support as we navigate this tremendous loss together.
Sincerely,
Carrie Balk
TRHS Principal
