STUART, Fla. (CBS12) — An 18-year-old high school senior was killed in a crash hours before his graduation on May 25.
According to the Martin County Sheriff's Office, Christopher Brooks of Hobe Sound rear-ended a dump truck near SW Pratt Whitney Road and SW Bulldog Way while driving to South Fork High School for graduation practice. The collision occurred around 8:58 a.m., with emergency responders from Martin County Fire Rescue arriving at the scene.
Witnesses reported they were stopped at a light when Brooks struck the truck, which was halted. “It was just pretty sad,” said Bernard Blackshire, a driver who witnessed the incident.
Sheriff John Budensiek confirmed that Brooks' grandparents were present at the scene. Investigators are unsure of Brooks' speed or the specifics of any distractions leading to the crash. It remains unclear if he was wearing a seatbelt, though Budensiek indicated it might not have changed the outcome.
“This morning highlights how fragile life is,” Budensiek said. “Drive defensively. Don't be texting and driving.”
The South Fork High School community expressed deep sorrow over the loss. Chief of Staff Jennifer DeShazo stated, “Our hearts are broken for the student, his family, and friends.”
Despite the tragedy, graduation will proceed as scheduled at 7 p.m. tonight. A local pastor will help honor Brooks' memory during the ceremony. Project Graduation has been canceled, though rescheduling may occur in the future.
The Florida Highway Patrol is now investigating the crash. Further information is pending.