Tragedy struck Kingston High School as two students, Dillon Gokey, 16, and Jack Noble, 17, lost their lives, and another student was hospitalized on Monday morning. The incident occurred when a tractor-trailer collided with the car they were traveling in on Route 28 in Shandaken, as reported by State Police.
According to authorities, the crash unfolded around 9 a.m. when 54-year-old Ramon LunaLuna, a resident of the Bronx, was driving a tractor-trailer east on State Route 28 in Shandaken.
LunaLuna allegedly struck a Honda that was stationary on the road, waiting to make a northward turn onto Route 212. Subsequently, LunaLuna reportedly crossed over the double yellow line into the westbound lanes, colliding with the Hyundai carrying the students.
Dillion Gokey Causes of Death Linked to Car Accident
Following the initial impact, the tractor-trailer overturned and subsequently collided with an Audi traveling west.
All three occupants of the Hyundai, identified as juniors from Kingston High School, suffered the consequences of the tragic incident. Dillon Gokey of Kingston and Jack Noble of Port Ewen, were unfortunately pronounced dead at the scene.
Another classmate from the same vehicle sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Westchester Medical Center. Meanwhile, Ramon LunaLuna, the tractor-trailer driver, was transported to a hospital for evaluation.
Fortunately, the driver of the Audi emerged from the collision without any reported injuries, as noted by investigators.
Dillion Gokey Obituary
Superintendent Paul J. Padalino expressed profound sorrow in a statement on the school district’s website, describing the fatal crash as “devastating.”
“Our hearts ache as we process this tragic news, and our love and support go out to all those affected by this unimaginable loss,” read his statement.
In response to the tragedy, the district has mobilized a Critical Incident Stress Management Team, consisting of social workers, psychologists, nurses, counselors, and trained safety personnel to assist students, staff, and their families in coping with traumatic situations.
Padalino urged families to engage in open conversations with their children about their emotions and reassured them that seeking help is acceptable. He also encouraged vigilance for any signs of distress or changes in behavior and urged families to reach out to school counselors or administrators if assistance is required.
“As we navigate through this challenging period, let us come together as a community to support one another and extend our deepest sympathies to those affected by this tragedy,” concluded Padalino in his statement.
