Eastern Arizona College has released a statement about the tragic accident that claimed three lives Friday night:
THATCHER, Ariz. — The Eastern Arizona College (EAC) campus community mourns the tragic loss of three Gila Institute For Technology (GIFT) students and those injured in a rollover accident last night. We join the entire Gila Valley community in prayer for the families and friends of these students and send our heartfelt condolences to them.
As many in our community are aware, the three fatal victims in the collision are a 16-year-old male from Thatcher, a 16-year-old male from Ft. Thomas, and a 17-year-old male from Duncan. Because these students are minors, EAC will not release their names.
The health and welfare of our students, faculty, and staff are a priority to EAC. At this time, the cause of this incident is still under investigation and EAC is working with the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
We know this news is difficult to process and that it affects many members of our community. Anyone in need of immediate support is encouraged to contact EAC’s Counseling Department at (928) 651-2889. A 24-hour crisis hotline is also available at 1-866-495-6735 (TTY/TDY: 711). Additional resources will be available at area high schools.
EAC will continue to coordinate with the Arizona Department of Public Safety and local agencies and release information as it becomes available.
Respectfully,
EAC President Todd Haynie
