Hero Teen Killed In Schaumburg Car Crash

SCHAUMBURG, IL — Police are investigating a crash that killed a Township High School District 211 student Sunday night in Schaumburg, the Daily Herald reports. Graham W. Fath, a 16-year-old junior at Conant High School, died after his 2010 Subaru Outback hit a utility pole along Wiley Road and caught fire, the report added.

As an 11-year-old in 2013, Fath, who lived in unincorporated Schaumburg, was one of four boys credited with helping rescue Niles police Cmdr. James Elenz and his then-10-year-old son, Ryan, while rafting on the Vermillion River. He and his older brother, Colin, received the Carnegie Medal for heroism for their efforts.

According to Schaumburg police, the accident happened at around 9 p.m. Sunday, March 11, as Fath was driving east in the 1400 block of Wiley Road, the report stated. An initial investigation determined that Fath's SUV drifted into the west lane before hitting a pole off the road, the report added.

RELATED: Rescuers Praised For Saving Niles Police Commander, Son

The SUV caught fire following the collision, and Fath was pronounced dead at the scene, the report stated. Investigators suspect speed might have played a part in the accident, and police are working with the Major Case Assistance Team, the report added.

Conant High School Principal Julie Nowak sent a message to parents about Fath's death, the report stated. District 211 grief counselors also will be available for students and faculty, the report added.

More via the Daily Herald

Photo via Shutterstock