BEVERLY, Mass. — One young man is dead and another injured after a late night crash in Beverly Friday night.
The president of the Endicott College confirmed the young man who died was a 19-year-old sophomore, Craig Sampson.
Police say officers found a BMW crashed into a utility pole upon arrival on Hale Street, just outside Endicott College.
"I heard an engine revving and tires skidding and then a big bang," said Sean Mack, a witness to the crash.
Paramedics and firefighter had to free Sampson and 20-year-old Joseph Castano from the car using the jaws of life because of the extensive damage.
Sampson died after being taken to a local hospital. Castano, who was driving, remains in serious condition. He was visiting Sampson at Endicott for the weekend; both men are from Williston, Vermont.
The site of the crash now has flowers, laying on top of shattered glass.
"He was kind of a spirit of the campus, an energy that - it was just unbelievable," said Endicott President Dr. Richard Wylie about Sampson.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, but police say speed and alcohol may have been factors.
Wylie is hosting a barbecue at his house Sunday in honor of Sampson.
The following letter was sent to Endicott students:
It is with great sadness that I inform you that Craig Sampson, a sophomore, passed away in a car accident last night outside Birchmont Hall. His loss is having a profound impact on his friends and family.
He brought life, energy and smiles to all our faces and will be greatly missed by our entire community.
At this time of sadness we must join together in our prayers and for Craig and his family. Gully's is open all day today with counselors present. Beechwood will be open from 8-12 tonight to provide a space for students to come together in grief; food will be provided.
Please keep the Sampson family in your thoughts and prayers.
Cox Media Group
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