Marblehead Mourns High School Student-Athlete Killed In Crash

MARBLEHEAD, MA — Grief counselors were set to be at Marblehead High School throughout the weekend as the school and neighboring communities mourn the death of senior student-athlete James Galante.

Marblehead police confirmed that Galante was killed in a car crash along the Causeway early Friday morning.

"It has been a tragic day for our Marblehead Public Schools family," Marblehead Superintendent John Buckey said in a statement Friday. "We were notified today that a senior at Marblehead High School was involved early this morning in a serious motor vehicle accident. After school was dismissed, the Marblehead Police Department shared the devastating news that the student, James Galante, did not survive the crash.

"We extend our deepest condolences to James’ family and friends and to our entire MPS community. I have no doubt that our Marblehead community will come together to support the Galante family through their unimaginable grief."

Counselors were scheduled to be at the high school for anyone in need from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

Those looking for support can also contact the Marblehead Counseling Center at 781-631-8273.

Marblehead Police Chief Dennis King said the investigation into the cause of the accident remains "active and ongoing."

"On a personal note," King said in a statement, "I have a daughter who is a senior in high school. My wife and I are heartbroken for the Galante family as we reflect and head into the end of her high school years, just as they should be doing.

"I can only offer my family's heartfelt condolences and assurances that we will conduct a full and thorough investigation."

King said police responded to a car off the road on the Causeway at about 3 a.m. on Friday. Galante, 18, was taken to a local hospital where he died later that morning. Police said there was only one person found in the vehicle.

Galante was a member of the 2021 Super Bowl champion Marblehead football team. Area schools and athletic departments shared messages of sympathy on Friday and Saturday.

"Sachem Nation's thoughts and prayers go out to the Marblehead Magicians community as they go through this difficult time of loss," the Saugus athletic department said in a social media post. "We stand with you in support."

"Peabody Athletics Department would like to offer our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers to the family, friends and loved ones of Marblehead standout student/athlete James Galante," Peabody High Athletic Director Dennis Desroches said.

Beverly High School officials also expressed sorrow.

"The Beverly High School community offers our condolences and support to the Marblehead High School community," the school said in a social media post. "We support the Marblehead community, high school athletic department, family and friends.

"This is an awful time."

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)