17-year-old driver charged in alleged drunken crash that killed Minisink teen, injured 2 others
Jack P. Braun, 17, was transported to Garnet Health Medical Center, where he died from his injuries.
More Stories
State police say two Orange County teenagers remain hospitalized Monday following a weekend car crash in the Town of Mamakating that killed their friend and resulted in the arrest of another.
State police say Minisink Valley High School student 17-year-old Jack Braun was killed Sunday when his classmate drove the 2014 Honda CR-V they were riding in down a steep embankment and overturned on Route 17, around 1:30 a.m. Two of their female friends, who were passengers, were critically injured and were taken to Westchester Medical Center.
The 17-year-old driver, whose name has not been released, has been charged with vehicular manslaughter, vehicular assault and DWI, according to state police.
Authorities say all four teens are Minisink Valley High School students.
The tragedy is sending shockwaves through the community.
“God has a plan but sometimes foolishness plays a part. It didn’t have to be this way,” says Mike Miedema.
District and Orange County grief counselors are at the high school helping students, faculty and staff who need support and officials say those resources will remain in place as long as they’re needed.
“It’s a tragedy. Do not drink and drive. If you have one call Uber. Call somebody. Call a friend,” says Art Decker.
Authorities say the driver was also hurt but is expected to recover. An official source tells News 12 the teens were at a woods party and were all drinking that night. State police say where the kids were before the crash and how they got alcohol remains under investigation.
Police have not said what the girls' injuries are or given an update on their medical status.
District Superintendent Brian Monahan and Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus released statements both asking the public to keep the families and students in their prayers.
“I have nine children,” says Miedema. “I can’t imagine losing one of them. It’s a sad thing.”
Anyone who needs help coping with the tragedy can call Orange County’s helpline at 311. Students can also use the county’s Text4Teens line at 845-391-1000 for additional support.
