GRANT COUNTY, Ind. (WLKI)- A juvenile driver was killed and four passengers were injured in an early-morning crash Saturday at Gas City Park, according to the Indiana State Police.
Emergency crews were called to the park around 3:30 a.m. after receiving reports of a single-vehicle crash. Investigators said the vehicle had been traveling south on a road near Duck Walk Run when it left the roadway for reasons that remain under investigation and struck a tree.
The juvenile driver suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Grant County Coroner's Office despite life-saving efforts. Authorities said the driver's identity will be released by the coroner's office.
Four passengers were also inside the vehicle at the time of the crash, including three juveniles. Two of the passengers were airlifted to a hospital for treatment, while the other two were transported by ambulance. Police have not released additional information about the extent of their injuries.
Indiana State Police said preliminary evidence indicates speed may have contributed to the crash. The exact circumstances, however, remain under investigation.
Members of the Indiana State Police Crash Reconstruction Team are assisting with the investigation and will work to determine what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway.
The crash prompted an outpouring of support from the Mississinewa school community.
Mississinewa High School announced Saturday that its scheduled homecoming dance had been postponed following the crash. School officials said the decision was made out of respect for the students, families and others affected.
"Our Mississinewa school community is grieving following a tragic accident early this morning involving members of our Mississinewa family," the school said in a statement.
The school also opened its doors Saturday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. for students who wanted to gather and support one another. Therapists and school staff were expected to be available to provide grief support.
School officials said a new date for the homecoming dance would be announced later.
Gas City Mayor Bill Rock Jr. also issued a statement following the crash, asking the community to keep the affected families and the Mississinewa school community in their thoughts and prayers.
"Our hearts go out to everyone affected during this incredibly difficult time," Rock said. "May the families, students, staff, and entire community find comfort, strength, and support in the days ahead."
The Grant County Sheriff's Office, Gas City Police Department, Grant County Coroner's Office, Gas City Fire Department, Grant County EMS and Marion General EMS assisted Indiana State Police at the scene.
The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.