High School Student Killed In Menifee Tesla Crash Mourned By Community

MENIFEE, CA — A Tesla carrying five Liberty High School students crashed into a wall Sunday night in Menifee, killing a 16-year-old girl and injuring the others inside, according to authorities.

The solo-vehicle wreck was reported at 6:26 p.m. in the 29500 block of Old Newport Road, according to Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department.

Clarissa Lewis of Menifee, who was the front-seat passenger in the sports car, died at the scene on eastbound Old Newport Road, approximately 400 feet east of Bristol Gate Lane, according to information from the Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner's Bureau and the Menifee Police Department.

"The preliminary investigation revealed the Tesla was going eastbound on Old Newport ... lost control and struck a curb," Capt. Dave Gutierrez said. "The Tesla then left the roadway, struck a tree and then a brick wall."

Two of the crash survivors were seriously injured in the wreck, while additional injuries were described by the fire department as moderate and minor. The victims were taken to a regional trauma center for treatment and were expected to survive.

The teen driver and surviving passengers cooperated with the crash investigation, Gutierrez said. It was not immediately clear whether alcohol and/or drugs were crash factors. The Menifee Police Department was continuing its investigation into the crash cause.

"The Menifee Police Department sends our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased juvenile," Gutierrez said. "We would like to remind all newer drivers to practice safe driving habits, to understand your personal and vehicle's capabilities."

Monday morning, Liberty High School Principal Dr. Erika Tejeda mourned the loss of one of the campus's own.

"As some of you may be aware, there was a car accident last night just outside the Tierra Shores area of Menifee. It is with a heavy heart that I inform you this accident involved five students from Liberty High School and one of the students passed away," Tejeda said in a statement posted to the Perris Union High School District's Facebook page.

Liberty High School, home of the bison, is part of the PUHSD. The campus is located in Winchester.

"Today will be a very difficult day for our students and staff; we will have counseling services available on campus," Tejeda continued. "We ask that you keep the Liberty HERD family in your thoughts as we mourn the loss of one of our own."

Commenters responded to the principal's post with prayers.

"Prayers for all involved. This is heartbreaking to hear," one commenter wrote.

"Prayers for all of the families, friends, and teachers," another posted.

—Patch Editor Toni McAllister and City News Service contributed to this report.