Two teenagers were killed in a crash Wednesday night near SeaWorld, San Diego police confirmed.
San Diego Police Department Officer John Buttle said a teen driver in a pickup truck crashed into a pole along Sea World Drive and at Sea World Way just before 9:30 p.m. Police believe the driver may have been speeding in those moments when he lost control and plowed into a light pole and then a streetlight.
The wreck left both the driver and his teenage passenger trapped inside. When firefighters arrived, they began the process of getting them out.
Buttle said the truck was “so badly mangled,” police thought there may have been more than two people inside. Police soon confirmed there were two victims – a male and female, both 19 years old. They both died at the scene.
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The westbound lanes of Sea World Drive were shut down during the investigation.
NBC 7 spoke with a friend at the scene of the deadly crash who said the victims were from Ramona, and part of a group of friends who had just left a bonfire at Fiesta Cove and were headed to a second one at Ventura Cove. Police have not yet confirmed these details.
Less than 24 hours after the crash, dozens of people were paying their respects at the scene of the crash, many with tears in their eyes and shaken by the loss of their friends. A memorial was growing along the roadway with flags, photos and flowers.
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SDPD has not yet confirmed the identifications of the victims and said family is still being notified.
We’re gathering more information. Check back for updates on this developing story.
