COLUMBIA TOWNSHIP, Ohio — A 17-year-old boy from Strongsville has died following a crash late Sunday night, which happened on Columbia West River Road near Sprague Road in Columbia Township.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol says their preliminary investigation shows it was around 11:04 p.m. when a 2011 Ford Fusion driven by the teen “went left of center while negotiating a curve prior to going off the right side of the roadway, striking a guardrail and down an embankment.”
The teen was extricated from the vehicle and taken to Southwest General Health Center where he was later pronounced dead.
The victim's mother confirmed his identification to 3News as Dominick Galarza.
Authorities say Dominick was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, which remains under investigation.
Cathy Wells tells 3News that she has lived near the crash site for 50 years and was home when the accident occurred.
"I was sleeping and I heard a big boom, loud boom," she said.
OSHP says they were assisted at the scene by the Columbia Township Fire Department and EMS, Strongsville police and the Olmsted Township Fire Department.
Dominick's friend Bradley Ashworth was at the crash site on Monday. 3News' Danielle Wiggins asked him what made him want to visit the accident scene.
"I just wanted answers because Dominick is the safest driver that I've ever been in a car with," Bradley said. "I mean, five second stops at a stop sign, 300 feet behind the line. There's no way. I need answers you know what I mean. It just doesn't make sense to me."
The Galarza family provided the following statement to 3News on the death of Dominick:
"Our Dominick was the most kind, sweet soul, dedicated son, loving brother to Isaiah, and friend to many. He loved dogs, watching UFC, dancing to Spanish music and tinkering on his car. Dommy was deep and intellectual, an avid learner that had aspirations of becoming a therapist to help others. His smile would light up the room and he gave the best hugs. We’re heartbroken and devastated beyond words can express, he will be so missed, but his beautiful life will live forever in us."
A GoFundMe has been set up for Dominick's family. Click here for details.
Strongsville City Schools shared the below note that was sent to district families by Superintendent Dr. Cameron Ryba about the death of Dominick Galarza:
Dear Parents:
It is with a heavy heart that I share that Dominick Galarza, 12th grade student at Strongsville High School, died in a car accident on Sunday evening.
Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Dominick’s family and friends during this difficult time. Our SHS teachers shared a statement of the news with students today at school. SCS counselors have and will be available throughout the day to offer students individual and group support. Members of our local crisis team will also be present tomorrow to speak to Dominick’s classmates in their classrooms, providing education on grief, and suggestions for coping.
I encourage you to talk to your children and check in on how they are feeling. When tragedies like this happen, it is normal for children to have a variety of emotions. Listening to their concerns, providing loving support, and reassuring them is critical at a time of loss. Maintaining normal routines will provide comfort and promote feelings of safety. Additionally, you can click HERE for some resources that may be helpful as you support your child.
We understand that grief does not end after one day. If you feel your child needs further individual assistance, please contact your child’s school counselor so that we can discuss how best to support your child.
Finally, it goes without saying that we, the Strongsville City Schools community, are devastated regarding the news of Dominick’s death. Our sincere condolences go out to his entire family. We all need to keep those affected in our thoughts as we move forward.
Sincerely,
Dr. Cameron M. Ryba
Superintendent