Winchester Football Captain Killed In Saturday Crash; Friends Remember Him As Nice Kid
WINCHESTER (CBS) – A captain of the Winchester High School football team was killed Saturday when his car crashed into a tree.
Pat Gill, a senior wide receiver and co-captain for the Sachems, died in a single-car crash Saturday morning in the area of 121 High Street.
Police said preliminary investigation shows that Gill's car was traveling eastbound on Manomet Road when it exited the roadway and hit the tree.
Firefighters responded to the scene Saturday, requesting the Jaws of Life and a reconstruction team.
Grief counselors are at Winchester High School on Saturday afternoon as news of Gill's death spread throughout the school.
Flowers were placed at the scene of the crash, where several classmates were at the scene, visibly shaken.
"This is a great loss to the Gill Family and the entire Winchester Community. The days, weeks, and months ahead will be difficult ones as we prepare to deal with this untimely loss," said Winchester Superintendent of Schools William H. McAlduff, Jr., in a statement.
Winchester Police Chief Kenneth C. Albertelli said Gill was transported by ambulance to Lahey Hospital and Medical Center in Burlington, where he was pronounced dead.
"Winchester Police responded to a single car accident this morning that resulted in the tragic death of a 17-year-old boy," Albertelli said.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim's family on this difficult day. Right now, we are working with our partners in state law enforcement to determine what exactly happened. It would be premature to comment further at this time."
The Winchester football team played Friday night on the road in Melrose. According to the Daily Times Chronicle, Gill had 55 receptions last year as a slot wide receiver.
Counselors will be available inside the Winchester High School cafeteria until 4 p.m. on Saturday and again from 12-4 p.m. on Sunday.
Friends, during a vigil held Saturday night, remembered Gill as a great friend.
"One of the nicest kids I ever met. Honestly, known him since elementary school, Just a real class act. Funny kid, great athlete," said Gill's friend, Thomas Munson.
A Winchester High School librarian recalled a sweet memory of Gill.
"He took my son under his wing two years ago and taught him everything he knows about lacrosse. And both my sons have lost an idol today," said school librarian, Karen Rockhold.
In addition, a non-denominational prayer service is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday at St. Mary's Church, which will remain open until 11 p.m.
"This outstanding community will support each other as best that we can as we come to terms with this tragic loss," said McAlduff.
"Again, our deepest condolences and positive thoughts go out to the Gill family."
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