ABINGTON, Mass. — Authorities have identified the 17-year-old driver of a stolen SUV who was killed Wednesday morning when the vehicle crashed into a tree during a police chase, seriously injuring four passengers.
Plymouth District Attorney Timothy J. Cruz and Abington Police Chief John Bonney identified the driver as Sebastian Hamilton on Thursday.
According to investigators, Abington police spotted a red Hyundai Santa Fe that had previously been reported stolen at about 7:50 a.m. and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The SUV then left the roadway and struck a tree near 877 Washington Street.
Five people, between 14 and 17 years of age, were inside the vehicle at the time of the crash.
A female passenger was ejected from the SUV, officials said. Three other passengers, including one male and two females, suffered life-threatening injuries. They were initially taken to area hospitals before being transferred to Boston for further treatment.
Hamilton became trapped inside the wreckage and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The four surviving passengers, whose names haven’t been released, remain hospitalized and continue to receive treatment, according to the district attorney’s office.
There is a growing memorial at the crash site on Washington St. Loved ones were leaving candles, flowers and pictures to honor Hamilton.
“He was a good friend of mine. We always had fun together,” Hamilton’s friend Jackson said. “He was an awesome kid. I’m going to miss him for a long time. I want to cry every time, but I try not to.”
Friends said Sebastian was outgoing and was a good kid.
“He was always good at carrying on a good long conversation with me. Not many kids would do that,” one mom said. “I’m so sorry this had to happen.”
This mother knew most of the kids who were involved in the crash. She was sick to see the news that the four others were seriously hurt and are in Boston hospitals.
“I hope the rest are strong enough to pull through. They’re good kids in a bad situation and made a bad choice.”
Officials have not released additional details about the circumstances leading up to the collision, although the officer involved in the pursuit has been placed on leave in accordance with department protocol, Abington Police Chief John Bonney said.
The crash remains under investigation by Abington police and the Massachusetts State Police.
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