Student killed in crash on way home from Cobb school

COBB COUNTY, Ga. — A North Cobb Christian School student was killed Monday in a car accident on her way home from the Kennesaw campus, according to the school principal.

Kathleen Sutz, 18, was a senior at the school, Principal Megan Strange said.

Georgia State Patrol said Sutz was driving on Rutledge Road in Paulding County when her car left its lane, veered off the roadway, struck a tree and burst into flames. She died at the scene.

“I spoke with Kathleen’s father and he said, ‘Kathleen is with Jesus,’” Strange said in an email to North Cobb Christian families. “I know that we are all devastated to hear this news and take great hope in the fact that Kathleen is in heaven.”

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Students gathered Tuesday morning for a time of prayer.

"Very few of them went home. Most of them wanted to be here and be together," headmaster Todd Clingman said.

Classmates decorated Sutz's parking spot with bright artwork to symbolize her bright life.

"(She was) just a beautiful person. We know that she put her faith in Christ, so we know where she is today," Clingman said.

Sutz was described as a quiet and private person who cared deeply about others.

Clingman said you never know how quickly things can change. He said this is a time to reflect on the fragility of life.

"None of us are guaranteed our next moment, so we have to live today like it's worth something," he said.

School officials said grief counselors will be available over the next few days. Sutz's family is working to finalize funeral arrangements.

Cox Media Group