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APOPKA, Fla. – The town of Apopka is enveloped in sorrow following a tragic accident that claimed the lives of three teenagers in the early hours of Sunday on East Welch Road.
The incident occurred around 1:30 a.m., according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The teens were traveling in a pickup truck that lost control and crashed into a tree near a curve at Wekiva Drive.
Authorities have identified the deceased as 17-year-old Enrique Sabas, 17-year-old Julio Lopez, and 13-year-old Leyner Velazquez. Their untimely deaths have shaken the community.
In addition to the fatalities, three other teens were in the vehicle at the time of the crash. These survivors, aged 17, 15, and 14, sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
Three other teens, ages 17, 15, and 14, were also in the truck and suffered serious injuries, investigators said.
On Monday night, more than 100 people gathered near the crash site for a vigil honoring the victims. Mourners brought flowers, balloons, and candles.
“I’m trying to come here and bring as much peace as I can to anybody out there that is hurting,” said Christian Gutierrez, a classmate of Lopez. “It shows a lot that people care. People have the heart to show empathy for other people.”
[VIDEO: 3 teens, including 13-year-old, ID’d in fatal Apopka rollover crash]
The mother of Enrique Sabas was among those at the vigil, breaking down in tears as friends and classmates offered comfort.
Inside Apopka High School, grief counselors were available Monday to support students.
“For somebody who did go to school today, we had the media center the whole day with counselors,” said Lydiani Cruz, a classmate. “It was a lot of people that came in, some in groups, others privately. Everyone’s hurting.”
Friends described Lopez as kind and generous.
“He’s a person with a big heart and a lot of sincerity,” one classmate said. “He tends to care about others even if he doesn’t know them.”
FHP said the crash remains under investigation.
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