'Devastating Loss To Our Community': Marblehead Mourns 8th-Grade Girl Killed In Car Crash

MARBLEHEAD, MA — Grief counselors will be available at Marblehead High School and Veterans Middle School through at least the end of the week as the community deals with the death of a 13-year-old girl involved in a car crash early on Tuesday morning.

Superintendent John Robidoux said the girl's death was a "devastating loss to our community" and that "we are deeply saddened and shocked by the sudden loss."

• Marblehead Crash Kills 13-Year-Old Girl, Teen Boy Facing Charges

"As we mourn with one another, we will support our students, faculty, and families with help from our administration and mental health teams," he said in a statement on Tuesday.

A 16-year-old boy is facing drunk driving charges following the overnight crash on Atlantic Avenue
that closed the road throughout Tuesday morning.

Marblehead police and fire said shortly before 3 a.m. they were called to the area of 352 Atlantic Avenue and found a "vehicle with extensive damage."

Police said the girl suffered life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said the boy was treated for injuries and taken to a local hospital. He was arrested and charged with operating under the influence.

Given that both parties involved are juveniles, police said no additional information was available as of Tuesday afternoon.

"We extend our heartfelt condolences to both families involved in this tragedy and request that their privacy be respected during this incredibly difficult time," Robidoux said.

Grief counselors will be available at both schools from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of this week.

"As students head back to class next week, we will continue to offer grief counseling and support services for anyone in need," the superintendent said.

The Marblehead Education Association extended its condolences to the family of the victim on Tuesday and said: "In moments like this, we are reminded of the strength and care within Marblehead."

"As educators, we stand together to support our students, families, and colleagues during this difficult time," the MEA said in a message on social media.

Anyone with information about the crash is urged to contact Marblehead Police Department Detective Sergeant Sean Brady at 781-631-1212.

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(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)