Four teens killed in Seminole crash

SEMINOLE -- Four teens were killed and another injured in a crash Friday night that shook a sleepy neighborhood and shocked a tight-knit community.

The five people were driving on 86th Avenue N when they collided with another car at 141st Way, according to witnesses and neighbors. Authorities said the crash happened about 11:15 p.m.

Three people died at the scene. Another was taken to Suncoast Hospital, and died shortly after the crash. A fifth victim was taken to Bayfront Medical Center and is in stable condition, according to Assistant Fire Chief George Bessler.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Richard Allen Goltl, 42, was driving a 1993 Chevrolet Lumina Z34 westbound on 86th Avenue N when 16-year-old Joseph Scott Ruzecki, driving a 2005 Lexus IS300, approached from behind.

FHP said the accident took place when Ruzecki attempted to pass on the left as Goltl turned left onto 141st Way. After the collision, Ruzicki's vehicle hit a tree and burst into flames.

Killed were Ruzecki, of Seminole; Keith MacCollom, 17, of Seminole; and Nathan S. Richardson, 15, of Pinellas Park. They were pronounced dead at the scene.

LaShawn Allan Smith, 16, of Largo, died while en route to Sun Coast Hospital.

Corey Kenneth LePore, 17, of Seminole, was taken to Bayfront Medical Center with serious injuries.

Only Ruzecki was wearing a seat belt. His passengers were ejected.

Goltl was treated and released, Bessler said. 

Ruzecki, Richardson, MacCollom and Lepore attend Seminole High School, said Andrea Zahn, a Pinellas County School District spokeswoman. Smith attended Largo High School, she said.

The teens' parents received next-of-kin notification at the accident scene, said Sgt. Steve Gaskins, FHP spokesman. Hundreds of grieving students and parents gathered in the residential neighborhood following the crash. 

"It's just a nightmare," said resident Mary Miscuk, whose daughter is a junior at the school. "This doesn't happen in Seminole. I'm looking at all these kids crying ... it's tragic."

When the crowd got too large, authorities opened up the school, less than a mile away. Grief counselors and several chaplains have been called in to help, Bessler said. 

"We're placing a lot of resources on this incident," he said. 

Florida Highway Patrol is investigating.

--Kameel Stanley, Times Staff Writer

If you want to share any information about the crash or the teens, please contact reporter Kameel Stanley at (727) 893-8643 or kstanley@sptimes.com.

Comments

[bandmom]

My heart goes out to the parents of these students. As I learned of this horrific accident, my heart stopped, and I am in shock. God bless those that are grieving and give me the strength to do all I can to help my Seminole family in their time of grief.......Yesterday will no longer be considered a Good Friday for many.

[Paul]

I can only imagine the heart break of the
families and friends of these young people.

We can only hope that they can somehow
find the peace that will transcend all understanding.

God bless them.

[Timjk54]

To luvyrpet : I think I speak for most human beings here .. a little less hate and a little more compassion . Karma can be a *itch sir/madam . Whatever the circumstances , there are 4 dead teenagers .. Do you actually hate the world enough to be happy about this ??
Your reaction is almost as sad as the story .

[Paul]

IT IS SAD THAT THE TRUTHGUY
USES THIS TRAGEDY TO PROMOTE HIS WEB SITE.

HE IS AN IDIOT AND HAS LITTLE FEELINGS FOR THOSE THAT WILL BE MOURNING FOR MANY YEARS TO COME.

[Mary]

I totally agree with luvyrpet and thetruthguy. You drive like a moron, you die. I feel much safer on MY streets knowing these punks are no longer on it.

[steenykill]

These are NOT arrogant students. I work with these teenagers and they are kind compassionate students. You are the arrogant one to post such a terrible comment when you do not know them from atom!!! I myself am greiving. I am saddened by this tragedy and my heartfelt prayers go out to their families and everyone who KNEW them. I am sure Monday will be a very difficult day at school as these students were well liked by many. As I cry, may GOD bless all of you as we struggle through this together as a community.Thank you Paul, thank you timjk54, thank you band mom for your heartfelt thoughts. Truthguy, my religion says I should pray for my enemies. I do not know who you are, but someone, please pray for this idiot as I do not have the strength to offer prayers to him, I only have the strength to pray for 4 dead children.

[Timjk54]

another hate post ( Mary ) ... The words you write here speak volumes of the person you are in everyday life .. It absolutely shocks me that some people are actually happy this happened !
God help us all ..

[Mary]

To you adults with kids in your car observing the way you drive...stupid is, stupid does.

[Scott]

I cant believe the lack of compassion here. There but for the grace of god go I....I think some people forget what it was like to be a teenager. Kids sometime do stupid things but to say your happy they died says more about your short-comings than theirs.

[LittleGypsy]

I live on 143rd and the kids come flying by my house almost every night. The speed limit on 86th is 25 MPH, as it is on 143rd, and there are just too many kids that go 55 & 60 MPH down these streets. I've had them pass me so fast their car would rock when the swung back in front of me. I've stood in my yard and seen the same thing happen on 143rd. My heart goes out to the families of these young people. This I say to all other teens: Look at what these families are going through and ask yourself, "Do I want my family to go through this?" Then drive like you mean it.

I'm sure these teens were very nice kids. But unfortunately, nice kids do stupid things. Fortunately, most of the time, they just get embarrassed by their stupidity. But all too often you see the results end as it did last night.

Again, I say "Kids look at this, think hard about it, and strive to not ever let it happen again because of a one-time act of stupidity of yours.

[Babyg1rl]

My heart goes out to the families of the accident victims. Indeed, my heart even goes out to the parents of the child driver who failed in their responsibilities to properly supervise him. I do take exception to the description of Nathan Richardson, 24, as a "teenager," "child," and "compassionate student." Perhaps we'll learn that it was his job to purchase alcohol.

[Janie]

Please join this Facebook group to honor my friends who died. :(

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=69087216314

[Big C]

What a nightmare. I think 16 is so young to be driving especially at night. Florida should take a really close look at the legal driving age and make some changes. My prayers are with the families.

[Will]

While any loss of life is tragic, to call this an accident is laughable. This was a mishap, plan and simple. The 16 year old driver tried to pass to the left on a residential street. I am sure he was speeding or there would have been no reason to pass. He caused this mishap. Hopefully others will see this as a wake up call, but doubtful. There will always be those kids who have no regard for the rules or for life, so they will push the limits. This was no accident and at least one of those kids who died, was 100% at fault.

[Reality]

Thank God the victim was able to walk away from these kids. I guess some people will never learn. Parents, you need to ask your kids to not have friends in the car until they learn how to drive.

[sunlover126]

The kind compassionate driver as steenykill portrays them were speeders. I am sure this not the first time young man has driven aggressively. Sixteen year old kids should not even be allowed to drive. Look at the teen driving statistics. Take away licenses. They can take the bus. We drivers have to look out for motorcycles.......now we have to look out for teenage drivers. What next?

[R.I.P lil homies i miss yall]

to all the people talking bout they happy for them to be off streets well yall deffinatly ignorant cause they are someones kids n they are my friend n no1 should wish death on no1 that hasnt seen there prime or had the chance to have there own family....and another fact they where all gewd kids with gewd grades so yea {{RIP kieth, lashawn,joe, nathan }}

[LHSgirl]

RIP LeShawn. you were a great friend. we love and miss you.

[LHSgirl]

WOW okay whoever the AHOLE who said we need to watch out for teenage drivers, "sunlover126", show some compassion. if youre so worried about watching out than get off the roads and YOU can take the freakin bus.

show some respect. those kids were my friends.

[pascomom3]

My prayers are with the families of these young people. What a horrible tragedy. How sad for all involved.

[R.I.P lil homies i miss yall]

well like lhs girl said if you so scared u can take da bus but u probally a person wit a walker lol

[sobeeit]

No matter how young these kids are and how stupid they MIGHT of been a very sad ending has happened. My prayers go out to these family and friends involved.
I was hoping young kids learned from Nick's mistake but now this young driver did the same thing. Now he'll have to pay just like Nick did.

[ShsGrad8710]

I am a 2006 graduate of Seminole and live right off of 86th Ave. in the area where the crash occurred. I couldn't believe this news in our small town of Seminole, this is such a tragic accident. My prayers are with all of the teens' family and friends who passed away in this accident as well the hundreds of students grieving the loss of their best friends. I pray that the survivor pulls through this and will be able to give some answers. I only ask for all other teens to please be careful driving and follow the speed limits, life can end in a split second.

[nellie]

My heart goes out to all these family...a great loss....PARENTS...look on the back of your 16 year olds licence...they are ONLY allowed to drive until 11pm....PLEASE....be responsible..follow the rules...it just might save your childs life! My child was safely home at 10:45 last night and every other night.

[chili]

I graduated in 1983 from Seminole. I have 3 children whom went to seminole and the youngest is a senior this year. I have lived in this area and on 86th Ave for many years. This is another tragic accident on this road. I hear cars zoom by my bedroom window daily!!!! some must be doing 80 or more. We must do something to prevent this from happening over and over. KIDS PLEASE SLOW DOWN!!!!!! My prayers are with all the families of theses kids. I will be talking to my 17yr old AGAIN and giving him a big hug today.

[mockdraught]

I'm troubled by the aggressiveness of young drivers on the roads today. Just yesterday, I was driving in that particular area and encountered similar behavior. Whatever happened to defensive driving? What has become of drivers' education?

[727solider]

RIP LaShawn gone but never forgotten

[Im a dad too]

It is very sad that this has happened. My condolences to the parents. You have my heart felt sympathy. This is not the first time on this same stretch of 86th Ave. We have ask the Sherrif's Dept on many ocassions to monitor this stretch. We have asked for speed bumps but were told no. We asked for stop signs and were told no. The only thing they did waas drop the speed limit to 25 from 30. That has done nothing. Many times I have made an attempt to turn into my driveway and have been passed on the left and nearly hit. Until the county does something about this stretch this will continue to happen. At one time the county placed a speed monitoring device on the street and you could see speeds of 40-58 mph. If they can spend sooo much time catching speeders by Lake Seminole they could spend some time on 86th Ave. At one time we had a neighborhood meeting at Tamarac and residents of the lower end of 86th from 141 to the end said if we didn't like the speeders we should move. Now they should be proud of themselves because this is the second time we have lost teenagers in this horrible way. Something needs to be done to slow this street down.

[SHS Dad]

Tragic, tragic, tragic. Some of these boys were friends of my daughter who is just devastated. Our thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of all involved.

Babyg1rl- Due to a typo in the initial reports Nathan is 14 not 24. So your assumptions he was buying alcohol are just plain wrong.

Allison- "Pot Smoking Losers"?????? You can't be real. Where can anyone come up with this stuff. No where in any of the news reports have alcohol and or drugs been brought up.

Why do people just make stuf up just to inflame things?

[steenykill]

Kind compassionate people make mistakes, too. Yes, I also agree the driving age should be different, age 18. They should not be driving at night and yes, the same question came to my mind why there was a 24 year old "young MAN" in the car with younger teens. Was there alcohol or drugs involved? That is yet to be determined, so before I pass judgement on others, I will wait to hear the outcome. And just because these teens did not use their best decision making, the families and friends of these teens need everyones support to pass the message of this tragedy and learn from it. I have also asked myself to remember my days as a teen. I made stupid mistakes, too.

[Allison]

A tisket, a tasket. Safe driving, or a casket.
http://www.michael-crook.com/2009/04/11/they-go-in-bunches/

[tj]

Before everyone gets upset with the young men, I have one question? Did the 42yr old have his blinker on? I'm not excusing anything, but we need to hear the facts before jumping on the kids. The speeding was wrong, but if the blinker wasn't on then they probably thought he was going straight and wanted to pass. My thoughts and prayers go out to the families of these young men and the gentleman involved.

[steenykill]

Yeah tj!!! Nobody down here uses turn signals. Its about time things change!!

[tammyevangelist]

LaShawn Smith was truly an amazing kid. I have so many memories with him back in the day. I remember friday nights at Rainbow skate center everyone would go and we'd dance and skate and sometimes when i got on skates at 3 in the morning on all night fridays lashawn would try to trip me and i knew he was playing thats just how it was always clownin. He was so sweet and he didnt deserve this..everyone asks why and there is a reason we just don't know it..Death leaves a heartache nobody can steal and a memory that can never be erased. I was a friend of LaShawn's and i've known him for awhile and i'll miss him its going to be different in school on monday, hell its going to be diffrent everyday for all of his close friends and family without him.. I'll always remember you iSicko I love you (:

[Reality]

One more item of note. Could the commenters please type in English? I am sad to see the English language die like it has. Pinellas teachers, you have FAILED!

[steenykill]

Isn't it amazing how the 24 year old was a typo. That child was a friend of all my daughters who were taught how to fish by this young man. Beacuse of that typo, judgement was passed. As I stated before, before you make nasty comments and have no compassion for anyone, get the facts first. I know all of the kids, except LaShawn. My heart goes out to his family also. The world today is so full of hate, what happened to "it takes a community to raise our children". Heck, some of us don't even know our neighbors names. When I grew up we all knew each other, the children played together, we had neighborhood cookouts, block parties to get to know our neighbors.We pass judgement because of the color of someones skin, where they live, how much money they make, what kind of car they drive.Instead of berating these teens and the responsibilities of the parent, let's stick together as as "family/community" and teach our children how to learn from others. Good judgement or bad. We must continue to teach as parents and I am sure these parents have spoken to their children until "they are BLUE in face" about the dangers of driving. Can we please just get along!!!

[Marie]

What a loss for these families. My heart goes out to them.

[vill]

(Mary) In your case, Stupid is what stupid says.. Dumb comments

Wasn't you a kid? they are just that kids. They do dumb things thinking its fun. Maybe when you were a kid cars didn't travel faster then 20 mile a hour.
This is a sad story. I wish all people would just come together when something like this happens to someone. instead of casting judgment on something they have no right too, Your not God! Pray this isn't someone in your family. God Bless and be with all those affected by this truly awful accident on this holy weekend.

[kim]

I think this accident is most tragic! My daughter is friends with these young people who have lost their lives and I am sure by the show of students last night indicates that these boys had lots of friends. My heartfelt sympathy and prayers go out to the family's of LeShawn, Joe, Keith,Nathan and Corey. Now what bothers me is the lack of compassion and the crudeness of some individuals who want to trash talk these young men. It is beyond me how a person can be so crude and lack any social grace whatsoever. You people are quick to judge these boys and you don't even know the details. Like another poster stated, how do you know the man had on his turn signal? I drive everyday and hardly anyone uses their turn signals they think everyone should know which way they are going. As for speeding, granted they shouldn't have been speeding but that is something we have all done as adults as well so to say a child or children should die because they were speeding is completely wrong. For those of you who having nothing better to do than throw insults out there and show your hatred, well it only shows how miserable you truly are in life and how pathetic your lives are! May God forgive you for your evilness! For the other poster who stated we have to watch for motorcycles and now teenagers, well guess what genius, you should be watching for everyone anyway, that's what they teach you when you get a license so quit complaining and do what your supposed to do! People like you don't belong on the road! Motorcycles and teenagers are a part of everyday driving, if you don't like it then I suggest you do what the other posters said and take the bus!

[kim]

Also, I suggest that every parent out there hug your children and children hug your parents! We never know what life will bring, so thank God for what you have and enjoy life to the fullest!

[vill]

Amen Kim!!!!!!

[steenykill]

RIP Keith, Joey, Nate & LaShawn. Corey -get well soon.

Nate: A special thank you to you for being their for the girls. They looked up to you like an older brother. They caught tarpon with you, only because you had the patience and skill to teach them. I just told your mom the other day what a joy you bring to the girls and also to me.You will be missed and NEVER forgotten!!!! I will miss your smiling face in halls.

I will miss you all and the laughter you brought others!!!

[steenykill]

Thank you Kim!!! We are definately on the same page!!!!

[whyman]

We all took some chances when we were young. Don't lie to yourself. So instead of pointing out the obvious truth, try using the rest of our lucky stars to have some compassion.

[justicecute]

We all make mistakes and we all at least once in our life have broken the speed limit. You want to make crude comments and say take away a license of a 16 yr old.At the end of the day whether they are 16,36 or 46 something tragic can happen from thinking driving a little bit faster not turning on a turn signal whatever it may be. This is a horrific event my heart goes out to the parents and friends of these kids. Their parents will never be able to see them as adults, will never know what they might have become, will never get to meet the grandchildren they could have had. The only thing a parent can do to protect their child is to talk to them let them know why they are nagging and that it is because they love them. Also, no matter what make sure that you can be your childs best friend. The only thing we can pray for is at the end of the day they heard you and they make the right choices whatever they may be.
PS - as far as the negative teen comments go. Everyday I get on the road I see a-holes speeding and driving recklessly and you know what at least 80% of them are grown adults. You take a drive on US19 during rush hour tell me what you see. So don't wish death or say it was deserved about anyone cause one day it could be you and how would you feel

[JaymmyJaym]

I teach at Seminole High. It will be a rough week there. This is a tough lesson that cannot be taught, but it can only be experienced. We should all pray for the families, and at the same time, talk to the children (because they still are children) and encourage them to be safe and make wise choices....even if they seem as small as passing a car on a road.

[K G]

This is a tragedy! All of you teen driver haters out there need to stop. I am the mother of a 17 year old "safe driver" but accidents happen at any age. Even great kids make mistakes. I constantly see adults driving far worse than most teenagers. And let's not even start a conversation about elderly drivers who should've had their licenses revoked years ago and have no business being on the road with my child, you, your children or myself. My heart goes out to the victim's families, friends and loved ones.

[emmalove]

I knew them. Keith MacCollom used to go to my church. This is horrible. I feel so bad for they're families. This accident should be teaching a lesson to every teenaged driver. You can never be too safe. The families should be in our prayers. God bless them.

[emmalove]

& seriously, its crazy, things like this like never happen in Seminole. & yahh you should show a bit of compassion!
thetruthguy mary and luvyrpet, they were sweet kids.
are you really happy that they're dead? what if it was your kid & someone was saying stuff like that about them? wouldnt you be a bit peeved? i know i would be. its HORRIBLE that you guys dont even show compassion. it truly is.
corey, pleaseee hang in there.

[MA]

Now is the time to show compassion for the survivors. My heart goes out to their families who have to figure out how to go on from here.

[mz72]

Driving a 2005 Lexus IS300 Sports Car at 16-years old at 11:15 p.m. on a Friday Night?? Did we not learn anything from Nick Hogan.......

[bornagain]

Our love, thoughts, and prayers go out to the families left behind because of this tragic accident. Teenagers think nothing will ever happen to them. We thank God that Keith was a born again Christian and know now that he is with the Lord. Other teenagers and parents should think about giving their lives to the Lord before it is too late!!

[gradstudent]

Slow down Florida, what a tragedy. I always see numerous people trying to pass on the left lane, but why? so we can both end up next to eachother at the upcoming red light? terrible that these kids had to lose their lives over negligent driving. My heart goes out to their families and loved ones. Please remind those that you love to be cautious drivers.

[Denise]

As a mother in this community, I write this with a heavy heart. The world has lost 4 young men this weekend. It seems impossible to speak of any consolation in the face of such a tragic bitter loss. A note to my teenage and young adult children: slow down, be cautious, and love yourself.

[jim b]

I have known Nathan most of his life.I was one of his coaches when he and my son played baseball. He was a fine young man and had a wonderful family. My heart and prayers go out to him, his family and all the other families and friends of those who met their demise on that fateful night. God bless

[Danielle]

This is a total shocker to me. Keith went to my church, and he was in my youth group. I never knew him personally, but I knew who he was. My dad taught him in Sunday School years ago, and he said he was a good kid. Rest in peace, Keith, and all the others.

[98049373]

This isn't about bashing the actions of those whom we just lost. This is about honoring the lives in which they lived and supporting the family and friends. We lost 4 people last night and many hearts are hurting right now. Yes, they made a mistake. Yes, this one happened to cost them they're lives. People make mistakes though, I'm sure all of you who are being arrogant and ignorant have made mistakes too. Don't take this as a time to vent about "stupid teenagers" and "good they're dead, they deserved it" instead use it as a way to learn and to educate. For those of us who are dealing with pain right now we need not to think of what could of been or why this happened but instead think of the good memories and laugh. Cherish those who you still have because you never know what might happen (as we have been reminded of far too often lately). My heart goes out to all of their families, be strong. We love you all! Rest in Peace Keith, Nate, Joey, and LeShawn you'll never be forgotten.

[Abby]

My condolences and prayers to the families.

[98049373]

I'd also like to add that I have almost been hit more by elderly drivers than teenage drivers. I also have seen several adults and teenagers alike speeding and driving recklessly. It's not about taking one group of people and watching out for them on the road, if youre a good driver (apparently everyone who is insulting is a perfect driver) you would be looking out for everyone. I also would like to make it clear that it has not been said that alcohol or drugs were involved in this accident. The oldest being 17 and youngest being 15 all highschool students with so many friends. They didn't have a chance to live their lives and see the world. Feel better soon Corey. =(

[Sandra]

I have to admit, although the young ones on this story won't understand why we say this but, these kids are driving too damn young and too damn fast!!

I get passed up daily by teens in a car laughing and going twice the speed limit. It is all a game to many of the young drivers, they don't yet have the respect for power that that the vehicle they driving holds over theirs and all the other drivers' lives on the road.

Not all teens are reckless drivers, but most are. RIP young ones, it is a sad day.

[Vince]

I wish you people on 86th would not have defeated having the speed bumps put in a couple of years ago. They might not have been the perfect solution but they would have helped in slowing drivers down, as they have on my street. Condolences to the families of these children. To all you young people out there reading this- PLEASE SLOW DOWN! SPEED KILLS!

[Babyg1rl]

Dear Steenykill,
R.I.P. could use a few more years with you as a kind, compassionate student so those of us who speak Emglish can understand him or her.

[Friend of Nate]

Nate, we'll always miss you. And you'll never be forgotten. You were the happiest most joyful kidd i knew. And we know you're in a better place.
-RIP Nate

[Kenneth]

I'm not trying to be one of "those" people - but a quick search led to a photo of at least one of the teens involved drinking alcohol. One witness at the scene described the teens as the type who regularly drink and smoke pot. Another report suggests that the driver had a restricted license, and that he was not allowed to carry passengers under 21 or drive after 11pm. Point is - this was no accident - this was suicide/homicide via automobile. Parents, make sure your kids know this.

[Danielle]

Amen, 98049373! You know, I am only 15, and I am SICK and TIRED of adults stereotyping teenagers as "reckless, dangerous, foolish, and stupid kids". Yeah, some make mistakes, and some really are foolish. But not all of us are like that, so you guys shouldn't be blaming us as a whole when something like this comes up! Consider this, adults: You guys say that we teenagers cause all the trouble and are to blame for every wrongdoing today, but have you guys ever stopped to consider who raised us? Now, please STOP crashing down on teens, because, in truth, we're really NOT so much the ones to blame. I'm sorry if this offended anyone, but you all know it's true.

[LadyG]

My heart goes out to the family and friends of all of those involved in the accident. For all those expressing elation at the passing of these young people, have you NEVER in your life gone over the speed limit? Have you NEVER done one thing in your life that you wish you could take back? Must be nice that you are all so perfect. Wait, a perfect person would not take delight in the deaths of children. I hope and pray that if you ever lose a loved one that people show you more compassion than you are willing to show others.

[so and so]

Will she find the change?
That had she made it.
Would've saved her son.
She won't find it.
There’s never just one.
She'll search, and search.
And grieve, and grieve.

This terrible loss calls for a lot of reflection on how each of us affect more than ourselves. With a bit of empathy and some compassion, things can be made a bit better and less bitter.
Peace is probably too much to ask for right now; strength is not. My condolences to the families of the departed.

[ccj]

My thoughts and prayers go out to these families. Also, let's remember Rick here. How would you feel being in this position? My thoughts are with you also.
We all need to learn from this,no matter what our age may be. We all make mistakes at times not driving right(no turn signals,speeding,etc), you have to ask yourself is it really worth your life or others? Please everyone slow down. Always rushing from here to there. Take time to enjoy life. So what if you are running late to something,better late then never having a tomorrow.

[IthinkDoU]

May God bless everyone affected by this terrible tragedy. My prayers are with you all!
As for the rest of you cold hearted vacuous idiots - sunlover126, Babyg1rl, Mary..etc
I’m betting there is a special place in hell for you…May you rot there!

[North Carolina John]

My heart goes out to these families in their time of grief. My question is why were a bunch of wet behind the ears kids out at this time of night with no supervision? Say what you want but they were still children and I am sure had very little driving experience and AGAIN a teenagers CARELESSNESS at driving has taken lives. When are you parents going to wake up and do something about this teenage driving problem late at night?? When ALL of your kids are dead?? Look at the stats, it seems no matter where you are there are several teens involved in mishaps and lives are lost. I personally don't feel that the school driving programs are putting enough emphasis on safety.

[lune c]

Funny, everyone's talking about the kids, but the three times I've been hit in a collision was by other adult drivers. Twice in Seminole, once on I-4. Another time i was hit on my bike by an adult driver passing me on Treasure Island, and they never bothered to stop. They caught them later, though. I also happen to live in Seminole, right next door to an elementary school car circle, and the parents whip by my house doing WELL ABOVE the speed limit. They actually 'gun' their cars when their running late. The school itself doesn't even try to control it, and has never bothered to lower the speed limit to 15 mph during school hours. It's why my son seldom walks to school, although we're right next door. It's not safe. I watch parents roll through the stop signs all the time, and once i watched a school bus do it. My mail box has been hit twice, because of ADULTS who are driving around the car circle line, and swerve to avoid another car. Also don't forget, Saint Petersburg itself is the red-light fatality capitol of Florida. I think dangerous driving on the road goes far beyond the kids, when the day-to-day driving conditions don't set a good example. Oh, and Mary? Before you go saying things like your glad someone's dead, maybe you should stop to think how that makes you look, honey. Right now I'm wondering how many of the boys in that car bagged you, and never called you back.

[seakip]

As a friend of two of the families that lost their children last night, I must say that I am appalled at some of the posts on this website. The dead can't read your snide and nasty remarks, only their living friends and family members can. Maybe you should think about that before you post. You are disgusting.

Futhermore, kids make mistakes. Don't you recall your own youth? Most are fortunate enough to learn from their mistakes and grow better by them; unfortunately these boys cannot. How despicable are you that you feel the boys' deaths are justified and deserved because of one boy's lapse in judgment. Get off your high horse and learn compassion. Maybe then your own kids will have a chance.

[Swarm07]

I went to Seminole High back around '85 illegaly because I was zoned for Seminole Middle/Largo High and wanted to go across the street and play football. I was often running around in this area and once had the same wreck on that street, passing someone on the left and having them turn right in front of me.

I was able to get the back end to kick around and broadsided the car instead of T-boning it and there were no injuries. I remember having time to actually think just before impact "Why couldn't I just have chilled?"

I believe everything happens for a reason, and that reason is always for good. I have often not been able to see the good myself, but I have a limited perspective. I just trust that He who does have that perspective will always be righteous and fair, and if it doesn't look that way to me then I must have it twisted, not Him. I pray that you all find that trust as well and can heal.

[bpotter621]

my heart is very sad about this tragedy
my prayers are with each and every family that has received this shocking news.
lashawn smith was a very beloved family friend for a very long time and i am very upset about his death. i cannot imagine what his mother is going through and my heart aches for her.
rest in peace shawn. we love you and will always remember the sweet person you were. love barbara,katrina,nick,jazlyn and newton

[Jackie]

Another tragic-teenagers-speeding-no seatbelts-accident. I know that the schools have tried to get the word out but when something horrible like this happens it makes you wonder how to prevent it. My 2-cents: doesn't matter what make/model car! They were in a group, out late and speeding and that's all that matters. My prayers with the families at this sad, sad time.

[rhonster]

I do not understand these people making such harsh comments. I am not too old to remember driving at 16 and I took some stupid chances too! I feel for these families and I feel for the friends of these kids. Monday will be a very hard day for many students. I pray for the families and the friends. Reach out to Jesus - HE heals all! One lesson I remember in school was - speed kills. Slow down kids - you will get there and it is better to get there alive!! God Bless the people of Seminole and surronding cities affected by this tragedy!

[nickatdabeach]

#1)- Speed kills .. #2)- Seat belts save lives.

[nickatdabeach]

... was Nick Bollea involved ... ?

[nickatdabeach]

.. curious .. how is the tree doing?

[tupi]

I'm so sorry for the families involved, and not just the immediate families, but the extended neighbors, teachers, and friends.

I wonder when we'll learn to teach our children that cars are the biggest legal weapon in the world. How many parents would encourage their kids to go out at night and play with guns or knives? Driving an automobile shouldn't be a rite of passage; it's time to consider denying children the right to drive unless they can genuinely understand the responsibility. They genuinely do not get it. Cars are killing machines.

I'm so sorry for everyone's loss. What a shame.

[Diana]

We'vee created a Facebook group to discuss and share memories about our friends who died last night..

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=89030363059

[MRainier]

Why is it people act so shocked. If you are 16 and given a Lexus IS300 what do you think a 16 year old boy is going to do with it? Drive sensibly? Doubt it. All in all the parents are at fault. The parents gave their child a fast car and probably no oversight on his driving skills. I say this because he hit another car and from there a tree with such a force the car burst into flames. I can say with much certainty he was not going even close to the speed limit. I feel sorry for all the families involved because of the lack of parental oversight 4 children are dead.

[METWO]

From what I heard the scene was Horrible... For you that have zero compassion and can look at this in a sterile,flippant manner..shame on you for losing your humanity.That stretch of 86th ave needs either speed bumps(like they did to the north on Commodore dr)or a 4 way stop or two just to slow traffic down.That stretch is too tempting to speed on in a residential area.

[Stephanie]

This is horrible tragedy and my prayers are with the families and friends of theses young boys.

Honestly, there is a ton of corruption in Seminole and I'm not surprised things like this don't happen more often. When you give a young kid a fast car and add alcohol, bad things are going to happen. Seminole kids aren't all angels, some of them love to party. And the sad thing is, some parents actually allow it.

Please parents, I pray for you to watch over your teens and give them the wisdom to make the right choices every day.

[k]

I feel bad for the loss, but there is a curfew for 16 year old drivers, the driver was out beyond the curfew.

Nothing good happens after 11:00 at night, wake up parents you are responsible for this. Absolutely no reason for any 16 to be out after this time, period!

[OHS Parent]

It takes a tragedy for all to stop and can only pray for the familys who have lost these young men, and at the same time realize that it could be anyone of us. It is time for all students from everywhere in pinellas to show their support to a school that will be grieving for some time. Attend the vigil for these young men and become one big community, not rivals, because at the snap of a finger it could be anybody that this could happen to.To the familys we hold you in our prayers.

[Babyg1rl]

That's even worse, SHS; it would seem his parents just didn't care what he was out doing.

[Cynthia]

I can't even read this garbage that is posted here. I don't care what the circumstances were, this is a tragic situation for ALL concerned. God be with them all and all of their families in this terrible time.

[kim]

Do you people have no sense what so ever. The parents, family and friends of these boys are grieving. They have suffered such a great loss. No parent should outlive their child. Regardless of whether they were speeding or not, you have no right to be so vicious, especially when you didn't know these boys. I have read so many nasty posts on here and I am sickened at the hatefulness of some of you people. You should be ashamed of yourself. Show some compassion and quit being ignorant. You say that teenagers shouldn't be driving, they are always speeding and laughing and not paying attention, well, I am here to say that you are the ignorant ones. I see grown adults speeding everyday, not using their signals, talking on their cell phones, cutting off other drivers and the list goes on so it is not about their age so get over it already. I have lost a lot of friends in car and motorcycle accidents and guess what, they were mostly caused by senior citizens or middle aged adults and I have not lost one friend in an accident caused by teenagers, so all of you bit#$ing is nothing more than hatred. I pray to God that you hateful people do not have children and that nothing ever happens to them because of your hatefulness.

[Mary]

I really dont understand what is so shocking. You drive like a idiot, you die. Parents really suck these days too.

[Mary]

What an ahole. I am really glad this guy Ruzecki is no longer driving on my streets!!!

[bballmom]

This is a devastating loss to this community and to the young people who are grieving right now. Leave the finger pointing and blame to those who have to bear that responsibility... law enforcement, lawyers, etc. For now, love and support the families and friends most affected by this tragedy. For our family, we will remember "Nate the Great," a terrific athlete and teammate, who gave us parents some pretty exciting moments in the stands.

For anyone who doesn't think this has impacted our youth.. look on Myspace. These kids are in pain. Have some compassion.

[boundfornews]

"It's just a nightmare," said resident Mary Miscuk, whose daughter is a junior at the school. "This doesn't happen in Seminole. I'm looking at all these kids crying ... it's tragic."<<<<-----
IT Doesn't?
Pick any school in Pinellas County, Id go as far as Hillsborough and Pasco too...you would be hard pressed to find another school that has had half as many deaths as Seminole High school....
car accidents number 1
drugs alcohol number 2
self inflicted number 3

my son 2006 grad SHS, has lost more classmates than his grandfathers 1958 class~

[Dawn]

First of all my heart really goes out to the family's and the grieving kids and I will pray for all you guys as you grieve. Second of all I will pray for the folks on here who are bitter. I will pray that God somehow feels your heart with happiness. We have ALL done stupid things as teenagers we were just fortunate enough to not have it end in tragedy. The folks on here who have bashed these families should be banned from this board. I have 3 kids of my own and I could not imagine loosing one of them. Us as parents always try our best to protect our kids. I know the folks on here who are bashing have no kids of their own. If you did you would be more compassionate. Please keep your negative comments to yourself and let these people grieve. Find out what is really going on inside yourself and stop taking it out on the wrong people. It is people like you that we have to keep our kids from. Again my heart goes out to all the families and the students. May God bless you all..

[mandysunshine]

I feel remorse for these families, but seriously, who are we kidding? I would pay to have my father meet these little hooligans. If I behaved like this growing up...... Come on. And even though I start my sentence with a preposition, I'm certaintly not that crappy. What ever happened to good manners and not killing your friends due to your own bad decisions? Every ghetto monkey has a voice. I'm uber happy my tax money is going somewhere. Thanks, Florida. I sleep much more soundly.

[D-Rome]

This is a terrible accident and a trajedy. An unnecessary death that could have been easily avoided.

That said, I have to agree with the other posters about the speed, reckless behavior, and irresponsibility. I lived in that area for a few years and I used to walk with my family right past that same spot and right past that same tree. An innocent person, or a kid could have been killed. I used to see people speed up and down that road.

I see a lot of people speed for no reason in Florida. 86th ave dead ends so when you factor all of that speeding the truth of the matter is that if they did not get into that accident they would have arrived to their destination no better than 3-5 seconds faster than if they had driven the speed limit.

[Wiloby]

Seminole seems to be having a run on teen drivers killing other teens. Quaint little town!!

[happyfeet]

For all those people who are eager to judge, and make stupid comments, such as tisket a tasket, drive safely or its a casket, I have one thing to say to you. You need to find your heart because you are made out of stone. You obviously did not know these boys. They were typical, fun loving, adventurous, talented, and wonderful kids. They liked to laugh and have fun, and maybe didn't take everything as serious as they could have. But again, they were under 18 and they were out having a good time. Whatever they did I know one thing, they never meant to hurt each other or anyone else. They all had a heart, and they have a soul. Our Lord will take care of their soul and they are all enjoying their celestial life. Nate was a very talented young baseball player and the team will miss him. Before you go judging him all of you need to think about his family who loved him dearly. Keith was a talented basketball player and a great student. He also has a family that would give their life to save his. I didn't know the others but I can comment on those who I do know. We will miss Nate, Keith, Scott, and hope that Corey can recover from all of his illness and pain. This is not a time to judge, but pray hard for the families that have to say an unjustified early goodbye to their children.

[evildemon]

I am so sorry for the families and friends of this tragedy. I remember being a teenager and feeling the need for speed. We used to drag race out on country roads. Though these kids chose to race around on city streets not only endangering themselves, but others too. I have a solution to this problem. Kids will be kids no matter what you say to them. If they want to go fast, they will. So, I think that the race track should be open to kids that feel the need for speed, so that they can get it out of their system in a safe environment. I'm sure though that there would be crashes involved, but that goes with the thrill of speed. But, there doesn't need to be death involved if the kids are properly protected with equipment. I know that if they had something like that when I was a kid, none of my friends would have died in horrible crashes like this either. I feel so bad for the family and friends of these kids, because I've been there and know how much they are hurting now.
As far as others here saying that this was a good thing and maybe the kids will learn from it, get a grip. Like I said, kids will be kids no matter what you say to them. So why not make something where they can be kids in a safe environment. Just a thought. As far as older drivers around here, if you can't see or have health problems, you shouldn't be driving either. Also, to the older drivers around here, please stay in your own lane and watch out for other drivers. You DON'T own the whole road no matter what you think. Again, my sincere condolences to the families and friends of these teenagers.

[Johnson09]

Everyone is talking about "he was out after curfew" do any of you realize that he was heading home to his parents house and was less than 5 seconds from getting home? So i don't think coming home 10 minutes late is really a big issue..i live a few houses away from them.