TIPPECANOE COUNTY, Ind. — Indiana State Police is investigating after two people were killed in a crash in Tippecanoe County Monday night.
13News has learned that one of those killed was a student at Benton Central Jr-Sr High School. That student was identified by the school corporation as Jaden Harvey. Another student was injured in the crash.
The coroner has not released the name of the other person killed in the crash.
Police were called around 9:30 p.m. Sept. 18 to U.S. 52 near County Road 400 West, near West Lafayette.
A preliminary investigation found a 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee traveling north on County Road 400 West when it struck the side of a 2005 Pontiac G2 traveling westbound on U.S. 52.
The driver and passenger of the Pontiac were pronounced dead at the scene by the Tippecanoe County coroner. The name of the other person killed has not yet been released, and police have not said if Harvey was driving or one of the passengers.
The driver of the Jeep was transported to a local hospital in unknown condition.
The crash remains under investigation.
Here is the Benton Community School Corporation's complete statement:
It is with deep sadness that I inform you that on Monday evening two of our high school students were involved in a car accident. Rylan Burge was injured in the accident and is currently hospitalized. Jaden Harvey was injured and unfortunately did not survive his injuries. Our entire Benton Community School Corporation wishes to express our deep condolences to the families and friends of these students. Jaden will be missed.
Our crisis response team is working with building administrators to provide support to students and staff in the next several days. We encourage families to speak with their child/children and use our dedicated Student Services Department at Benton Central.
Our Benton School Community has historically demonstrated amazing support, banding together during difficult times. We appreciate all the thoughts, prayers, and support from the community as our corporation processes this tragedy. Let’s remain Benton Strong.