Falmouth car crash kills 18-year-old after high school prom
An 18-year-old killed in a Falmouth crash Saturday night had just attended her high school prom, police said. Ava Lodico died in the single-car crash just before 11 p.m., police said.
The crash happened at Acapesket Road and Casey's Way. Video from the scene showed a white Range Rover SUV with heavy front-end damage. It appeared to have struck a tree not far from the side of the road.
The car was on fire when first responders arrived, police said. Rescuers were able to get Lodico out of the car, but she was pronounced dead from her injuries at the hospital.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Counselors were on hand Sunday and Monday at the Falmouth High School library, a small source of support and comfort for devastated seniors, during what should be their season of celebration.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time," Falmouth Public Schools Supt. Lori Duerr said in a statement.
Lodico was just weeks away from graduating. The devastating loss happened exactly three weeks from commencement, scheduled for June 7.
Classmates mourn
The site, near Casey's Way, was never lonely for long on Monday. A large cross, photos and flowers were placed by the tree.
Some classmates made quick, quiet visits to pay their respects. Others brought blankets, to sit with each other, seeking solace in friendship.
Located on the southeast portion of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, Falmouth is a part of Barnstable County with a population of around 31,000 people.