WINCHESTER, Mass. (MyFoxBoston.com) -- Hundreds of community members gathered to mourn the loss of a Winchester High School student that was killed in single car crash Saturday morning.
"It's a huge, huge, huge loss," said Karen Rockhold, librarian, one of the many who gathered at Saint Mary's church in Winchester to remember the life of 17-year-old Patrick Gill.
"It's a very sad incident that is gonna ripple through the town and through families," said Bill Crowe, Gill's neighbor.
At about 7 a.m. Saturday, police responded to Manomet Road for the report of a single car crash. The driver, Gill, was transported to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.
Police found that the car was traveling eastbound on Manomet Road before it exited the roadway and crashed into a tree.
"Winchester Police responded to a single car accident this morning that resulted in the tragic death of a 17-year-old boy," Police Chief Kenneth C. Albertelli said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim's family on this difficult day. Right now, we are working with our partners in State law enforcement to determine what exactly happened. It would be premature to comment further at this time."
The superintendent of schools William H. McAlduff, Jr. released a statement Saturday saying that the student's death "is a great loss to the Gill Family and the entire Winchester Community."
The statement went on to say, "The days, weeks, and months ahead will be difficult ones as we prepare to deal with this untimely loss."
Gill's family is large and well known in Winchester. His uncle is the DPW director, and his father is active in town government. Friends say he touched just about everyone he met, was active in his church, and devoted to his family, especially his twin sister.
Grief counselors were at their high school Saturday to help students cope, as they were shocked by the tragic news.
"He had such a bright future, I can't even fathom it right now," former classmate Jeff Bellotti said.
There will be a non-denominational prayer service on Saturday at 7 p.m. at St. Mary's Church to honor and remember Gill. The church will remain open until 11 p.m.
Counselors will be available to students and community members at the high school again Sunday from noon to 4 p.m.
Cox Media Group
