8th Grader Killed In Crash 'Brought A Lot Of Joy' To Jr. High, Exemplified Vision Of Graduate: Principal

HOMEWOOD, IL — A Homewood teen killed in a three-car crash at 183rd and Governors Highway Sunday was a beloved eighth grader at Parker Junior High, Flossmoor District 161 officials confirmed to school families.

Kyran Smith, 14, was a passenger in a car that was struck Sunday night, authorities said Monday.

In a letter sent to parents, Parker Jr. High Principal Ursula Parris said Smith "exemplified our vision of a portrait of a graduate by seeking multiple ways to solve problems, being an empathetic listener, and gently greeting others with a warm smile.

"He brought a lot of joy to PJHS and he will be greatly missed by all of us. As a school community, we are committed to supporting Kyran’s family, our students, and our staff members during this difficult time."

On Sunday, just after 8:15 p.m., Homewood police and fire, along with several assisting police and fire agencies, responded to the intersection of 183^rd and Governors Highway for the report of a traffic crash. Police learned that a gray Chevy Equinox was traveling southbound in the 18200 block of Governors Highway when it veered off the roadway and struck a black Buick Park Avenue and a black Nissan Rogue that were stopped facing westbound 183^rd Street at Governors Highway.

The 36-year-old driver of the Chevy Equinox fled on foot from the scene and was quickly located by officers. The driver was treated for minor injuries and taken to a local hospital.

The 31-year-old driver and 33-year-old passenger of the Buick Park Avenue were treated for minor injuries and taken to a local hospital.

The 27-year-old driver of the Nissan Rogue was treated for minor injuries and taken to a local hospital. A 14-year-old passenger was treated by Homewood Fire Department paramedics but died at the scene.

Parris said Smith's homeroom class and eighth grade teams were told first of his death, followed by remaining teams and students.

Additional social workers are available throughout the day to support students and staff, Parris said.

Arrangements were not yet available Monday, Parris said.

The crash is under investigation by the Homewood Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit with assistance from the Suburban Major Accident Reconstruction Team (SMART).

Anyone who may have witnessed the crash is asked to contact the Homewood Police Department at 708-206-3420.