Deadly crash closes Pratt Whitney Road near South Fork High School in Martin County

A high school senior died Thursday morning in a crash near South Fork High School, according to the Martin County School District.During a news conference, Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek identified the student as 18-year-old Christopher Brooks of Hobe Sound, who he says was driving to the high school for graduation practice. WATCH: Sheriff on fatal crash outside South Fork High School He says Brooks was traveling north on Pratt Whitney Road when he failed to stop for traffic and rear-ended a dump truck. He died on impact, according to the sheriff's office. The sheriff's office said the crash occurred at Pratt Whitney Road and Bulldog Way around 8:30 a.m., and traffic was stopped at a red light when the crash happened. A friend of Brooks' saw the smoke from the accident, and ran up to the car, according to Budensiek. "So they're traumatized," he said. "Through our investigation, we learned that Mr. Brooks is a beloved student here at the school, he's part of their ag program, part of their shop program, and this really does highlight just how, again, how fragile life is, how quickly things change. His grandparents, who are his legal guardians, have been on scene with us pretty much since this crash took place," said Budensiek. Martin County School District Chief of Staff Jennifer DeShazo called the loss an "unfathomable tragedy," and said tonight's graduation ceremony will still go on, but will "take on a much more somber tone." She said Brooks was a lifelong Martin County student, who had attended school in the district since kindergarten. He was on the bowling team and was part of the veterinary tech program, which prepares students to become vet assistants. The school district posted on Facebook that the roadway in front of the school is currently blocked off, and asked families and community members to avoid the area if possible.Graduation at the school is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday. The district said they are offering counseling throughout the day. FHP is leading the investigation. Stay with WPTV.com and WPTV News for updates.