Kent-Meridian family has lost a member, memorial service planned for student — Commentary

(Editor’s note: This is a letter from Principal Wade Barringer that went out Monday to teachers and students at Kent-Meridian High School. Our condolences go to all of K-M and the Kent community at this time.)

To All Students, Parents, Guardians and Staff:

I regret to inform you of very sad news regarding members of our K-M family. Early Sunday morning, four of our students were involved in a single-car accident.

Three of them sustained injuries and the fourth student, Dorian Tursic, a senior at K-M, passed away at the scene.

Today we provided counseling services to assist students who need support and we will continue to provide that assistance as needed. We will let you know when we have more information.

We are all shocked and saddened by the event and we know that everyone deals with grieving differently.

You can support your student simply by talking and listening to them. We don’t always know how a student will be affected in a crisis, but you know your child the best of anyone.

Counselors are available as well as teachers and other staff to serve as resources for our K-M students, staff, and families as they have the need to talk or express difficult feelings. Please contact our counseling office at 253-373-7436 if you or your student need assistance.

The Kent-Meridian family sends our condolences and support to the Tursic family as well as to the families of the three students recovering from their injuries. I am very proud of K-M students and staff as they handle this tragedy with respect and care for each other.

K-M will be holding a candlelight vigil on Wednesday, Jan. 6 at 6 p.m. on French Field followed by a power point presentation of Dorian’s life at K-M. Please join us. Bring your own candle and extras if you have them.

Please don’t hesitate to call me at 253-373-7403 if you have any questions regarding this tragic incident.

Wade Barringer

Principal

Kent-Meridian High School