STUART, Fla. (CBS12) — An 18-year-old high school senior died in a crash on SW Pratt Whitney Road just hours before graduation practice on Thursday morning.
According to the Martin County Sheriff's Office, Christopher Brooks was driving northbound when he rear-ended a dump truck at the intersection of SW Pratt Whitney Road and SW Bulldog Way. Initial reports indicate he failed to slow down for stopped vehicles.
Witnesses at the scene described the moments leading up to the collision. “We stopped at the stop light, and then he crashed into the back of the truck,” said Lucia Fourie, a nearby student. Another witness, Bernard Blackshire, a semi-truck driver, noted efforts to assist Brooks but found the vehicle remained stuck.
Jennifer DeShazo, Chief of Staff for the Martin County School District, expressed the community's grief, stating, “Our hearts are broken for the student, his family, and friends.” Sheriff John Budensiek added that Brooks' grandparents were present at the crash site and emphasized the need for cautious driving.
The Sheriff stated the investigation is ongoing, with authorities unsure of Brooks' speed or whether he was wearing a seatbelt, though they believe distraction may have contributed to the incident.
The accident occurred as South Fork High School prepared for its graduation ceremony scheduled for 7 p.m. Despite the tragedy, the ceremony will proceed with plans to honor Brooks' memory. Project Graduation has been canceled but may be rescheduled in the future.
Martin County Sheriff's Office deputies and Martin County Fire Rescue responded to the scene. The Florida Highway Patrol will lead the investigation. No further details have been released at this time.