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Published on June 05, 2024
El Dorado High School Mourns Student Killed in Placentia Crash as Police Seek WitnessesSource: Google Street View

A tragic morning incident near El Dorado High School in Placentia has claimed the life of a student and left four others injured. The collision occurred around 8 a.m. Tuesday at the intersection of Yorba Linda Boulevard and Valencia Avenue, just as students were arriving for school. Zach Henn, a 17-year-old junior, was identified as the fatality in the head-on crash that involved his recently acquired 1984 Corvette and a Range Rover driven by a 39-year-old woman, who also had two juveniles inside her vehicle.

According to NBC Los Angeles, Henn was transported to the hospital after being extricated from his vehicle but succumbed to his injuries. While his passenger managed to self-extricate with non-life-threatening injuries, the other driver and passengers were also hospitalized, but their injuries did not appear to be serious. A vigil for Henn took place on campus Tuesday, the Superintendent Alex Cherniss addressing the gravity of the loss saying, "Our entire school district is overwhelmed with grief beyond words."

Investigations are ongoing, and officials have not clarified the events leading up to the collision. While it is unclear whether a red light was run, the Placentia Police are actively seeking dash camera footage from witnesses. Placentia Police Department told KTLA, “Anyone with information can call the Placentia Police Department at 714-993-8164.” Extra counseling and support staff were dispatched to El Dorado High School and other institutions in the district following the tragedy.

Students and friends of Henn recalled the morning's distressing events and shared memories of their lost peer. Ivy Seitz, a classmate, recounted to KTLA hearing the crash during an early class. The victim, known for his lively spirit and as a member of the track team had been proudly working on his Corvette, said friend Jacob Estrada in a statement obtained by Fox LA. A makeshift memorial with candles and flowers now stands near the crash site, where those who knew Henn have gathered to honor him.