STUART, Fla. (CBS12) — A fatal crash near South Fork High School this morning claimed the life of an 18-year-old senior just hours before graduation.
According to the Martin County Sheriff's Office, Christopher Brooks, of Hobe Sound, was driving northbound on SW Pratt Whitney Road when he rear-ended a stopped dump truck at the intersection with SW Bulldog Way around 8:58 a.m. The collision occurred as Brooks failed to slow for the stopped vehicles ahead.
Witnesses described the chaotic scene. A fellow student reported seeing the crash unfold, stating, “We had stopped at the stop light… he crashed into the back of the truck.” A semi-truck driver attempted to help but was unable to open Brooks' vehicle's door.
Jennifer DeShazo, Chief of Staff for the Martin County School District, expressed grief over the incident, emphasizing the tragedy's impact on the school community. “One of our seniors… was tragically killed in a motor vehicle accident just outside our gate,” she said.
Sheriff John Budensiek reported that Brooks' grandparents were at the scene. An investigation is ongoing, with initial findings suggesting Brooks may have been distracted and possibly not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
The Florida Highway Patrol is handling the investigation. No further details have been released.
The Martin County School District announced that graduation will proceed as scheduled tonight at 7 p.m., although it will be held in a somber tone. Ceremony adjustments include honoring Brooks during the event. Project Graduation has been canceled due to the tragedy.