Two teenagers were killed in a devastating head-on collision early Saturday morning in Chisago City, Minnesota.
According to a release from the Lakes Area Police Department, the crash occurred just before 2 a.m. on Oct. 25 at the intersection of Stacy Trail and Ivywood Trail. Authorities said a 2014 Toyota Camry driven by a 14-year-old boy — with two 15-year-old passengers — collided with a 2000 Toyota 4-Runner driven by a 17-year-old boy, who had an 18-year-old passenger.
One of the 15-year-old boys was pronounced dead at the scene, while the two others in the Camry were taken to Regions Hospital with serious injuries. One of the injured victims was airlifted from the crash site.
The 17-year-old driver of the 4-Runner later died at the same hospital. His 18-year-old passenger was transported to another medical facility, though officials did not share an update on his condition.
The Chisago Lakes Hockey Association identified one of the victims as Jax Affolter, describing him as “a much loved son, brother, friend and teammate.” The organization said, “Today, we as a hockey family mourn the loss of Jax, and stand committed to being there to support his family.” His younger brother currently plays in the local Wildcat Mite program.
A Meal Train created for Affolter’s family has raised more than $10,000 as of Monday morning, Oct. 27.
Friends of the 17-year-old victim are also mourning his death. Western Romero told NBC affiliate KARE that he had known the teen since childhood and said, “Everyone loved him.” He added to FOX affiliate KMSP, “Shocked, I mean it hasn’t hit me. I don’t think it’s hit anyone here that we’re not going to see him on this planet again, so everyone’s kind of hit in different ways. Everyone’s grieving in other ways.”
The mother of the second 15-year-old boy said her son was celebrating his 15th birthday when the accident happened, KARE reported. A GoFundMe set up for his recovery says he suffered multiple injuries, including two broken legs.
Memorials have been placed at the crash site to honor the two teens who lost their lives.
The investigation remains active. Police noted that alcohol was “located at the scene and may have been a factor in the crash.”
