Davenport, IA : Park View teen killed in crash remembered as a 'shining star' on February, Thursday 15th 2018

The North Scott School District on Thursday mourned the loss of 15-year-old SJ Madden, who was killed Wednesday night in a two vehicle, head-on crash near Eldridge.

“It’s a major impact on our community,” Superintendent Joe Stutting said of the North High School sophomore. “It’s a tragedy.”

The crash happened at 5:08 p.m. in the 25000 block of 162nd Avenue just north of Eldridge. It is a two-lane, asphalt road that runs north and south between Long Grove and Eldridge in central Scott County.

The initial investigation shows that a black 2004 Ford F250, driven by an 18-year-old Long Grove man, was traveling south on 162nd Avenue. A blue 2001 Toyota Rav 4, driven by Madden, was traveling north on 162nd Avenue.

He was driving on a valid school license, according to the sheriff’s office.

According to witnesses on scene, the Toyota crossed into the southbound lane of travel and then attempted to go back into the northbound lane as the Ford attempted to avoid the Toyota, which was coming at it head-on.

The Ford and Toyota struck each other head-on, causing the Toyota to roll over into the east side ditch onto its roof, according to the sheriff’s office.

The Ford also went into the east side ditch and remained on its wheels. Both drivers were wearing their seat belts and both vehicles' air bags were deployed, according to the sheriff’s office.

Madden, of Park View, was pronounced dead at the scene. Sheriff Tim Lane said he did not know the extent of the 18-year-old's injuries but said he did not believe they were serious.

Lane called the incident "a terrible tragedy."

Stutting said the district learned of the crash Wednesday night and gathered a crisis intervention team at the high school first thing Thursday.

“Our first objective in a crisis situation like this is to make sure that we’re taking care of our students, our staff, and the families and the community. Right now, that’s our primary concern and the actions that we’re taking right now.”

A counseling area was set up in the auditorium for students and staff and provided extra support at Neil Armstrong Elementary School and North Scott Junior High School where Madden’s siblings attend.

A letter also was sent out to parents Thursday.

“We are saddened by the loss to our school community and will make every effort to help you and your child as you need,” North Scott High School Principal Shane Knoche said in the letter.

Stutting said Madden had been involved in Lancer Productions, the drama program at the high school, since he was a freshman.

According to the program’s website, he was cast in the role of “Mr. Beaver” in the high school’s upcoming production of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

“With deepest sorrow, we announce we will be canceling our performances of 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' for this weekend Feb. 16-18,” Lancer Productions said on its Twitter page.

“We ask that you keep the Madden family in your prayers.”

The news of Madden’s death quickly circulated on social media Thursday.

“SJ Madden, you were a shining star and a dear heart,” Davenport North Drama tweeted. “You will be missed.”

“SJ was one of the kindest people out there!” North Scott Student Government tweeted. “Rest in peace and much love.”

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the Madden family,” tweeted Blue Devil Productions, the drama program at Central High School. “SJ is now a star in the sky where he can still shine bright.”

North Scott High School Activities, in a Tweet sent Thursday, encouraged students and staff to wear his favorite color – red – and/or Lego or "Star Wars"-themed clothing Friday in his memory.

Source :
Park View teen killed in crash remembered as a 'shining star'