Coroner IDs 17-year-old Lakota student killed in head-on Liberty Township crash

The Butler County Coroner has identified the 17-year-old Lakota Local Schools student who died in a head-on crash in Liberty Township earlier this month.According to the coroner, Sajandeep Singh died in the crash.The coroner did not list a specific preliminary cause of death.The crash happened on Wednesday, May 14, around 11:45 a.m. when the Butler County Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team responded to a crash on Mauds Hughes Road, just south of Kyles Station Road.Butler County deputies said their preliminary investigation indicated a 17-year-old boy was driving northbound in a Honda Civic when for unknown reasons, he crossed left of center and collided head-on with a Kroger delivery van traveling south.The driver, now identified as Singh, suffered critical injuries and was taken to UC West Chester Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after.The driver of the Transit van was also taken to UC West Chester and is being treated for minor injuries."This is an unimaginable tragedy," Sheriff Richard Jones said. "The loss of a young life is something no family should ever have to endure. Our hearts are with the family as they navigate this devastating loss."WLWT spoke with a neighbor who said she heard the crash."I heard a pop and I thought it was a gunshot and then I saw the Butler County Sheriff cars coming down really fast and then I thought maybe it's a car accident," Kimmy Amberger said. "17 year old probably getting ready to graduate so I pray for the families because I would hate for that to be me getting that news." A day after the crash, Lakota Local Schools released a statement, confirming the teen was a student in the district."It is with deep sorrow that Lakota Local Schools has learned of the tragic loss of one of our students. Our hearts are heavy as we extend our deepest condolences to the student’s family, friends and all who knew and loved him.Out of respect for the family’s wishes, we will not be sharing any further details at this time. We ask for privacy and understanding as the family navigates this difficult period.We have mobilized our crisis response team, which includes counselors and mental health professionals, to provide support and resources to those affected by this loss. We encourage anyone in need of assistance to reach out to our support services through their school’s office.Our focus remains on providing a supportive and compassionate environment for our students and staff as we grieve together."