GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Students are mourning the loss of a 16-year-old classmate who died after several cars crashed in Gwinnett County.
Police said the girl was killed while waiting to turn out of an apartment complex on McGinnis Ferry Road in Suwanee. Friends identified the victim as Samarah Masai.
"Samarah is one of my best friends," said Christian Mason. "Every class we had together, she wouldn't make me stop laughing."
A large group gathered Monday night outside the apartment complex to remember their friend.
"That was my partner right there. It's just sad to see her go," Mason said.
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The crash that killed the teen happened around 1 p.m. Sunday.
Suwanee police said a driver of a Dodge pickup truck lost control and slammed into the 16-year-old's Nissan Pathfinder, killing her instantly.
The truck hit several other cars before it swerved onto a private drive and into the complex on McGinnis Ferry Road. The driver was taken to Gwinnett Medical Center with injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
Friends told Washington that Samarah was a junior at Peachtree Ridge High School. The principal sent a letter to parents that read, in part:
"The loss of such a young, promising life is sure to raise many emotions and our students may need support during this time."
Police have not said what caused the pickup truck driver to lose control and whether he will face any charges. The crash is still under investigation.
Peachtree Ridge will have grief counselors on hand this week.