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‘Heartbroken.’ 2 South Meck High students killed in wreck on Friday, principal says

Two South Mecklenburg High School students died in a wreck Friday morning, Principal Mark Angerer said in a message to parents.
Two South Mecklenburg High School students died in a wreck Friday morning, Principal Mark Angerer said in a message to parents. WSOC

Two South Mecklenburg High School students died in a wreck Friday morning, Principal Mark Angerer said in a message to parents.

Seniors Kaia Hodge and Jada Cousins were killed in the crash, Angerer said.

“We are heartbroken by this loss and grieve with Kaia and Jada’s family and friends,” the principal said.

Medics said another person involved in the wreck was hospitalized with minor injuries.

The collision happened at the intersection of Tyvola Road and Old Pineville Road in south Charlotte just before 7 a.m., Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police said.

The intersection was closed for several hours as officers investigated. As of 7 a.m. Saturday, police had released no details of how the crash happened.

Footage by Charlotte Observer news partner WSOC showed an 18-wheeler at the scene.

Grief counseling services were available to students and staff at the school, Angerer said in his message, which was released to the media by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.

“We extend our sincere condolences to Kaia and Jada’s families, and we ask that you keep them in your thoughts as well,” the principal said.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

This story was originally published March 8, 2024 at 12:00 AM.

Joe Marusak
The Charlotte Observer
Joe Marusak has been a reporter for The Charlotte Observer since 1989 covering the people, municipalities and major news events of the region, and was a news bureau editor for the paper. He currently reports on breaking news. Support my work with a digital subscription
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