ULSTER, Pa. (WETM) – An Athens Area High School student has died after a multi-vehicle crash on Route 220 in Ulster Township, according to Pennsylvania State Police.
The driver was identified by Bradford County Coroner as Jordan Christian Garris of Sayre.
According to the accident report, at 8:42 a.m. Garris was traveling south at a “high rate of speed” when he lost control of a 2008 Mazda 3. The car crossed over the double yellow line into the northbound lane and was struck by a Ford F250 on the front end of the passenger side just north of Millionaire Lane on Route 220.
Garris was pronounced deceased at the scene at 9:28 a.m. due to “multiple blunt force trauma injuries” and the manner of death has been ruled accidental.
The driver of the Ford was transported to Robert Packer Hospital for suspected minor injuries.
Routine toxicology studies are being performed and the accident remains under investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police.
Both vehicles suffered extensive damage and were towed from the scene.
According to PA 511, both lanes on US 220 between Bridge Street and Milan Road have reopened.
The Athens Area School District released the following statement regarding the accident:
Dear Wildcat Parents, Students and Community members,
It is with extreme sadness that I share with you all that one of our students passed away today. Our deepest condolences and thoughts go out to the family and friends of this student.
During this time, as the entire staff and student body begin to process this tragic news, we have a team of crisis and support counselors on site and available should any student or staff member need to talk.
Coping with the loss classmate/friend can be challenging for students. If you are at home and you notice that your child is still having difficulty with this loss, we encourage you to discuss their thoughts and feelings to help them work through their grief or concerns.
Additionally, should you feel like you or your child need assistance know that there are many resources available to you and your child.
Our counselors and other staff members are always available during the school day to work with any child that is struggling.
If you or your child needs help after the school day or on weekends here are some additional resources:
Safe 2 Say 844-723-2729
Mental Health
Bradford County Crisis 570-265-1760 or 800-588-1828
Northern Tier Counseling 570-265-0100
Helplines
Concern Crisis (Mental Health) 877-724-7142 or 570-268-3073
After hours 800-332-6718
Youth Crisis Helpline 800-448-4663
Warmline (Mental Health) Helpline 570-637-5964
Sincerely,
Craig Stage, Superintendent Athens Area School District
State Police were assisted by the Ulster, Athens, and North Towanda Fire Companies, Greater Valley EMS, and Guthrie EMS.
This is a developing story and 18 News will have more information as it becomes available
