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2 Williamsville South HS students identified as crash fatalities

The front of Williamsville South High School.
Williamsville South High School
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New York State Police are investigating a one-car crash that claimed the lives of two 17-year-old Williamsville South High School seniors in Clarence Monday afternoon.

The crash occurred at 4:10 p.m. on Delaware Road near Goodrich Road, where police said their Jeep Cherokee SUV crossed through the oncoming lane, left the roadway, overturned and hit a tree.

The driver, Luke Malinich of Amherst, and the passenger, Lauren Taggart of Williamsville, died at the scene. A high rate of speed may have been a factor in the crash, but the investigation is continuing.

In a statement, the Williamsville Central School District said it is "heartbroken" by the loss of the two students. Grief counselors and support staff are available for students and staff.