New York high school student dies, another clings to life in tragic accident two days before graduation

A twelfth-grader at a Westchester high school was killed in a car crash in the early hours of Tuesday morning, leaving another clinging to life just days before they were due to graduate.

The two Fox Land High School students were speeding along a Bedford Hills freeway just before 2:30 a.m. when they lost control of their sedan and crashed into several cars parked in a nearby parking lot, Bedford police Lt. Jeff Gulick told News 12.

Both were taken to Westchester Medical Center, where 18-year-old driver Joshua Martinez Arana succumbed to his injuries, the high school confirmed.

The passenger, another 2024 graduate, remains in critical condition, according to Gulick.

Both were reportedly scheduled to graduate from Fox Lane High School on Thursday.

Robert Glass, superintendent of the Bedford Central School District, sent a letter to parents Tuesday morning regarding the tragedy.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Josh’s family and this loss will certainly bring forth many emotions throughout our community, especially our students,” Glass wrote.

“Please be assured that our district crisis team is mobilized with help from clinicians from neighboring districts and we are providing assistance to any students and staff who need it during this difficult time.”