Three teenagers from Georgia, including a standout high school volleyball player, tragically lost their lives, while another fights for survival after a devastating car accident during their spring break trip in Florida.
This tragic incident happened on Monday on Highway 65 in Franklin County as the group was en route to St. George Island. Their Jeep went off the road, crashing into a tree line, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety.
The deceased include an 18-year-old man, a 17-year-old woman, and a 16-year-old woman, all from Cumming, Georgia.
A fourth victim, a 17-year-old girl, managed to survive the crash and is currently in critical condition at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital.
One of those who died has been identified as Jaylin Fehr. A GoFundMe campaign was created to assist her family with travel and funeral costs.
Fehr was a senior at Horizon Christian Academy in Cumming and was recognized not just for her skills on the volleyball court but also for her active role in her church community.
According to the fundraising page, she played for her club team, A5 Gwinnett, and was known for her dedication and sportsmanship.
“Jaylin was involved at Local Forsyth and participated in youth activities at North Point Community Church,” it noted. Her “faith and kindness” had a profound impact on those who knew her, and her passing has left a deep ache in the hearts of family and friends.
She is survived by her parents, Lynn and Jason.
In a statement, Horizon Christian Academy confirmed that all involved in the accident were students at the school. They opened a chapel for students and families to come together in mourning and support.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of three wonderful, bright, and beloved students in this tragic accident,” the school expressed. They extended prayers for comfort to grieving families and the community during this challenging time.
The school added, “Over the coming days and weeks, we will unite in grief and offer support to these families in every way we can.”
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances of the crash, including how fast the Jeep was going before it veered off course, as noted by Franklin County Sheriff AJ “Tony” Smith.
Good Samaritans who were in the area rushed to help the victims right after the crash occurred, even before the vehicle caught fire.
Smith mentioned, “They were on the scene almost immediately and managed to assist, pulling one of the female teens from the passenger seat.” The sheriff conveyed that the community is “heartbroken” by the incident and that the families affected will remain in their thoughts and prayers, along with hopes for the recovery of the survivor.
