GREGG COUNTY, TX : Teen killed in Gregg County wreck was 'outstanding student' on Monday, 19th September 2016

A teenager killed in a Gregg County wreck was the kind of student teachers want others to emulate, an educator said Monday morning.

Jordan Thompson, 16, of Liberty City, died after an early morning wreck on Highway 135. He was a junior at Sabine High School.

Principal Eddie Shawn described Jordan as a top student, saying the school was heartbroken over his loss.

"Jordan was one of our outstanding students, top five in his class, member of our band. ... Just one of those kids that was one of the bright stars we have here at Sabine High School. One that we'd like to have other students model after. He's going to be a big loss for our student body and for all of us here," Shawn said.

Jordan's twin brother, who was a passenger in the vehicle, was transported to a hospital. Shawn said he is expected to recover.

The grieving community has not had a chance to plan a vigil or memorial, but school officials plan to reach out to family members before planning any services. Counselors and youth ministers have been at the campus to aid students, the principal said.

"(It's a) big hit. (We're) still trying to get through it," Shawn said. "We're just heartbroken."

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the two-vehicle crash occurred about 7:09 a.m. Monday at the intersection of Spokane Road and Highway 135.

A preliminary crash report shows that a Chevrolet Trailblazer, driven by Jordan, attempted to turn south on Highway 135. A 2000 Peterbuilt truck, towing a tanker trailer, was traveling north on Highway 135. The Chevrolet was struck in the driver's door.

DPS says the driver of the Chevrolet was pronounced dead at the scene and a passenger in the vehicle was transported to the hospital. The driver of the truck was identified as Harold Pilgreen, 29.

Source :
Teen killed in Gregg County wreck was 'outstanding student'