GAS CITY, Ind. — A 14-year-old Mississinewa student was killed and four other people were injured in a crash at Gas City Park early Saturday morning, prompting an outpouring of grief across the school community. According to authorities, first responders were called to the park around 3:30 a.m. after reports of a crash. When emergency crews arrived, they found a 2021 Hyundai Elantra that appeared to have left the roadway and struck a tree.
Medics immediately provided aid to the vehicle’s driver, who was later identified by the Grant County Coroner’s Office as a 14-year-old girl. Despite efforts by emergency personnel, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her name has not been publicly released. Four additional occupants were inside the Elantra, including three juveniles and one adult. All four were transported to area hospitals for treatment. Two passengers were flown to hospitals by medical helicopters, while the remaining two were taken by ambulance.
Indiana State Police, which is investigating the crash, said troopers determined the Elantra had been traveling southbound near Duck Walk Run before leaving the roadway and striking the tree. Investigators have not yet determined why the vehicle left the road, although authorities believe speed was a contributing factor. The investigation remains ongoing.
Mississinewa Community Schools confirmed that the teenager who died was one of its students. In response to the tragedy, the district has postponed its Homecoming Dance out of respect for the student, the other people involved, and their families. The district also plans to make counseling and grief-support services available to students when classes resume Monday. School officials are encouraging students and families to support one another as the community mourns and begins processing the heartbreaking loss.