Jovanny Escamilla-Salinas; photo cred: the Escamilla-Salinas family
Update (12-7-2023)
A private memorial for the family and soccer team is occurring on Thursday, December 7 at 2:30 pm. The soccer team will present Jovany’s family with his jersey and a soccer ball. A formal memorial ceremony is being considered.
Update (12-5-2023)
The family has identified Rocky River High School Senior Jovanny Escamila-Salinas as the victim of the fatal accident that occurred on December 4th near the school.
Original Story (12-4-2023)
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Officials say one Rocky River High School student was killed and two other students were injured in a wreck that happened near the school.
The accident happened on Blair Road near Allen Station Road shortly after 8am on Monday, December 4th, according to MEDIC. One person was pronounced dead on the scene and two others were transported to Atrium Health, according to first responders.
The principal at Rocky River High School sent the following message to parents, students, and staff:
Rocky River High School families, this is Principal LeGrand with an important message.
Three of our students were involved in a car accident this morning. It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that one of our students died and the other two suffered serious injuries. We are heartbroken by this loss of life, and we grieve with the family and friends of our student. Our thoughts are prayers with the families and friends of all three students.
Sudden death and life-threatening injuries can be difficult for us to understand, especially with young people. We may feel a variety of emotions: shock, sadness, or confusion. What is most important is that we care for and support each other. The Crisis Response Team has made plans to respond to the emotional needs of all students. Counselors will be highly visible throughout the building and available to assist with grief counseling.
If your family has experienced a death or similar loss recently, this accident may bring up strong feelings. While this may be a normal experience, we want to provide assistance if needed. Please make your student’s teacher or our counselors aware if there is any additional information the school should be aware of so we can provide the support your student needs. This difficult time can be stressful and confusing. A sudden death may be disturbing to you as well as to your student. It is for this reason that we especially want you to know of our care and support.
Thank you for your continued support of Rocky River High School.
No other details have been released at this time. This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
