Missing South Lakes High Teacher Found Dead: Reports

FAIRFAX, VA — The man found dead in a motorcycle crash in Fairfax on Thursday has been identified as a South Lakes High School teacher who had been reported missing, according to reports.

Police identified the victim as 39-year-old Simon Chang of Ashburn, and South Lakes High School issued a statement on Saturday saying that the community was "mourning the death" of Chang, who they identified as a special education teacher and member of the boys basketball coaching staff.

"Mr. Chang was as a beloved member of the Seahawk family," the statement reads. "He will be remembered for his positivity and dedication to our staff and students. He will be greatly missed. We have been in contact with Mr. Chang’s family to offer our condolences and support."

The school will provide counselors and an FCPS crisis team on Monday to meet with students or staff who need support.

"Our thoughts are with Mr. Chang’s family and friends during this difficult time," the school added.

Police responded to the 4900 block of Alliance Drive in Fairfax at around 1:56 p.m. on Thursday after a groundskeeper "found the wreckage and the body of an obviously deceased man nearby," according to a report from the Fairfax County Police Department.

"Preliminary, detectives believe the operator was riding a motorcycle from Lee Highway to northbound Fairfax County Parkway when the motorcycle ran off the right shoulder of the ramp and came to rest in a wooded area adjacent to a runoff pond," the report states. "Detectives have found no indication that any other vehicles were involved and have not determined if speed or alcohol were factors."

Reston Now says that Chang was reported missing on Aug. 16.