In a devastating turn of events, one teenager has died and six others sustained injuries after a single-vehicle crash in Mashpee, Massachusetts. The incident occurred early this morning, as a Toyota RAV4 carrying seven teenagers crashed into a tree.

According to NBC Boston, the crash happened around 2:06 a.m. on Carlton Drive and Swain Circle. The driver, navigating northbound, lost control before veering off the road. Among the teens involved, all between the ages of 15 and 17 and residents of Mashpee and Falmouth, six were rushed to the hospital with injuries that appeared life-threatening at the time.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Assistant Superintendent Hope Hanscom of Mashpee Public Schools expressed deep sorrow. "It is with profound sadness that I share the news that there was a serious car accident in Mashpee early this morning, involving several Mashpee Middle-High School students," Hanscom said in a letter that was detailed in a report by WHDH. The school has deployed its counseling team to provide emotional support to students, staff, and families amidst this challenging time.

Mashpee Police Chief Scott Carline addressed the tragedy, stating, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim and his family at this time," in a statement obtained by WCVB. The name of the deceased 17-year-old, as well as the conditions of the injured, have not been released. The investigation into the cause of the accident continues, led by the Mashpee Police Department and the Cape Cod Regional Law Enforcement Council Crash Reconstruction Unit.

Amidst the unfolding of this tragedy, the Mashpee community has been left to grapple with the loss and the stark reminder of the fragility of young lives. The schools and local authorities are working closely to ensure the necessary support is in place for those affected by the incident.