ATHENS, Ga. — The four University of Georgia students that were killed following a two-vehicle crash in Oconee County Wednesday night have been identified.
The crash happened at about 9 p.m. on Highway 15, near Watkinsville, according to WGCL. The accident scene is about 14 miles south of Athens.
According to the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office, five female students from the University of Georgia were headed northbound when they crossed the center line and collided with another vehicle. Three of the students died at the scene. A fourth later died at Athens Regional Medical Center while a fifth student remains hospitalized.
The driver of the other vehicle was in serious condition when paramedics rushed her to the hospital, according to the sheriff. There were no other passengers in her vehicle, he said.
They have been identified as Kayla Canedo, 19, of Alpharetta; Brittany Feldman, 20, of Alpharetta; Christina Semeria, 19, of Milton; and Halle Scott, 19, of Dunwoody. The driver of the Camry, Agnes Kim, 21, of Snellville, remains hospitalized at Athens Regional Medical Center.
The driver of the Chevrolet Cobalt, Abby Short, 27, of Demorest, was injured and transported to Athens Regional Medical Center.
The sheriff tells CBS46 News there were no signs of drugs or alcohol in either vehicle.
Authorities have not released the identities of any of the crash victims.
University of Georgia President Jere W. Morehead released this statement regarding the incident:
We are deeply saddened to learn of the heartbreaking and tragic loss of four students and critical injuries to another student in a terrible car accident last night outside of Athens. We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of our students who were victims. We ask that you keep these students and their family and friends in your thoughts and prayers.
University of Georgia Vice President Victor K. Wilson also released this statement on the accident:
“I am deeply saddened at the news of a terrible tragedy in the university community last night. Five University of Georgia students were in a terrible car accident outside of Athens. Four students lost their lives and one is in critical condition at Athens Regional Medical Center. We are praying for the family and friends of these students, and ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers, as well. We in the university community care for each other, and we especially treasure our students. The loss of four students in this tragic way is truly heartbreaking.
The university community will remember these students, along with others who have passed in the last year, in a memorial service on Tuesday, May 3, 2016, at 7:00 p.m. at the University Chapel. During this difficult time, I encourage all of us to support one another.”
As Wilson said in his statement, a memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 3 at 7 p.m. at the University Chapel.
Oconee County Sheriff Scott Berry also posted condolences on the department’s Facebook page.
It is unclear what caused the crash or who was at fault. The accident remains under investigation.
