Pennsylvania Teen Ends His Life After Friend Is Killed In Car Accident

A community is mourning two losses after a Lancaster teen reportedly ended his life moments after his best friend was killed in a car accident.

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The East Lampeter Township Police Dept. wrote in their report that the incident occurred on June 25 around 12:13 a.m. when they found a 2014 Hyundai  Sante Fe on its side and identified a passenger, Tyreese Smith,16, deceased. It stated that Smith was found under the vehicle when police conducted their investigation. Another passenger, 18-year-old Amalie Wendt, was injured in the crash but received treatment for injuries at a nearby hospital.

Minutes after investigating the crash site, police also received a call about a shooting at a residence at 1: 54 a.m. and officers reported they found 17-year-old Tyler Zook. Zook died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and police added that he was “an occupant of the Hyundai at the time of the crash.” According to TOO FAB, it is unclear who was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash, but the car belonged to Wendt’s father.

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Smith’s mother said the pair were inseparable and known to be the best of friends. They met each other at age six while playing football and spent time playing video games, listening to music, and hunting together.

“He developed his playing skills through the CV Youth Football program where he played through sixth grade. Starting in seventh grade, Tyler played for CV’s junior high team and began starting on the Varsity team during his sophomore year. He especially enjoyed being under the Friday night lights. Tyler also played rec baseball and basketball when he was younger. His family found great joy watching him play sports.”

Tyreese was also remembered for committing selfless acts and a playful personality, as described by his obituary. Tyler’s obituary said he enjoyed spending time with his teammates on and off the field and was “preceded in death by his best friend, Tyreese Smith, of Lancaster.” 

“Ty will be remembered for his playful personality and his ability to bring joy to others. He had an infectious smile that naturally attracted people to him. He was dedicated to his family and will be remembered for his countless selfless acts. Tyler enjoyed spending time with his teammates both on and off the field. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time with family, and being at the beach.

He recently completed his sophomore year at Conestoga Valley High School, where he played on the Varsity football team. Ty loved playing sports. He was in the CV Mat Club and Youth Football during 5th and 6th grade. He also played on the Junior High Football and Basketball teams.”

Tyreese had just finished his sophomore year at Conestoga Valley, while Tyler was entering his senior year. Wendt recently graduated from high school.

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, hurting themselves or struggling with their mental health please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline(1-800-273-825). You are not alone.