Four students at Buffalo Grove High School were killed Tuesday night in a 3 car accident. Another student from the school was also injured. Two others were sent to the hospital.
It happened at about 10:20 PM Tuesday night at the intersection of Dundee and Schoenbeck (Shone-Beck) Roads in Wheeling.
The four dead are 18-year-old Richard De-Ita, 17-year-old Kevin Hernandez-Teran, 16-year-old Jesus Rodriguez and 17-year-old Ricky Barcenas.
Classes were already canceled at Buffalo Grove High School Wednesday because of a fire that happened Tuesday evening.
A spokesperson for High School District 214 said in a statement, “It is with the deepest sorrow that we confirm that four Buffalo Grove High School students were killed, and one student remains hospitalized, in what police are describing as a multi-car crash Tuesday night in Wheeling.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of these students during this time of tragedy. We also offer condolences to all Buffalo Grove students, families and staff members. Names of the students have not been announced publicly out of respect for grieving families during this unimaginably difficult time.
“Buffalo Grove High School is closed today because of a fire last evening. We will, however, be making counselors available as soon as possible to help our school community deal with this tragic loss and will inform students, staff and families directly regarding this.”
Officials say three vehicles were involved, one was speeding and at least one vehicle blew through a red light.
Seven people had to be extricated from their vehicles.
Police are asking anyone who saw anything gives investigators a call.
