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Kent Island Community Mourns Loss Of 4 Teens Killed In Crash

STEVENSVILLE, Md. (WJZ) — Hundreds of people gather at Kent Island High School, shocked by the loss of four recent graduates.

Meghan McCorkell reports on the outpouring of emotion.

The entire Kent Island community came together Thursday night to remember four lives lost too soon.

The American flag was raised high above the football field at Kent Island High School as hundreds gather to remember four recent graduates.

"I just saw them before it happened. So it just makes it so unreal," said Katie Devries.

Tyler Elzey, Cory Passagno, Mike Ringenbach and Harrison Rhodes Smith were all killed in a horrible crash. Investigators believe the driver--Passagno--was speeding down Cox Neck Road, lost control of his car and crashed into a black Ford Focus.

Four crosses and countless flowers now mark the spot where the four best friends died.

"And they did everything together, whether it be skateboarding or playing video games or just doing any--bowling, fishing--anything here on the island," said Stella Durbin, former teacher.

Outside the Kent Island Volunteer Fire Department is a message for those who lost their lives. Empty boots and a helmet sit outside the station. Tyler Elzey was a member of the volunteer fire company for nearly two years.

Some of his fellow firefighters were first on the scene of the crash.

"We respond to tragic calls all the time, but we're not used to seeing it be one of our own," said Asst. Chief Paul Schletterbeck, Kent Island VFC.

The accident has impacted nearly everybody in this close-knit community.

"Just trying to support one another for them. I mean, that's what they would have wanted," said Jessica Jakubic.

Now, through tears, they share memories of four young lives that touched so many.

The driver of the Ford Focus was rushed to Shock Trauma. He is expected to survive.

Elzey, Smith and Ringenbach all worked together at Hemingway's Restaurant in Kent Island.

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