St Thomas Aquinas Tragic Death, Obituary – A tragic traffic accident in Pompano Beach on Friday evening claimed the life of a 16-year-old St. Thomas Aquinas High School student and injured several others, authorities confirmed Saturday.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office reported that the collision occurred just before 8 p.m. near the intersection of West Copans Road and Leisure Boulevard. According to the preliminary investigation, the teen was driving a 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 westbound when it was struck by a 2021 Toyota Sienna turning left from Leisure Boulevard. The force of the collision caused the Mercedes to roll onto its roof, slide across the street, and collide with a 2015 Lexus RX 350. Debris from the crash also hit a 2021 Toyota RAV4 traveling eastbound.
Emergency crews responded promptly, with deputies attempting life-saving measures before the Pompano Beach Fire Rescue arrived. The young driver was later pronounced dead at a hospital. Four passengers in the Mercedes — all 17 years old — survived but sustained injuries requiring hospitalization. Their names remain confidential under Marsy’s Law.
The drivers of the Toyota Sienna and Toyota RAV4 were unharmed and remained on scene to cooperate with the investigation. Additional information about these adults is being withheld.
Investigators indicated that excessive speed may have been a factor in the crash, though the inquiry remains open.
The identities of the students involved have not been released, but authorities confirmed they all attend St. Thomas Aquinas High School. The school community is mourning the loss of one of their own and supporting the families affected during this difficult time.