Santorelli's vehicle was hit head-on Highway 29 near Quintette Road early last Friday
A head-on collision last Friday on Highway 29 in Escambia County (Fla.) killed both drivers, one a Northview High School senior.
Kara Santorelli, 18, of Molino, Fla., was traveling northbound on Highway 29 about 12:41 a.m. on March 17, approaching Quintette Road, when a white Chevy sedan traveling southbound collided with Santorelli's vehicle head-on, according to a Florida Highway Patrol report.
The report said the Chevy sedan caught fire with the driver still inside. Both drivers died on scene. The identity of the other driver was not released.
Northview High School released the following statement about the tragedy:
"Today, with sad hearts, we welcome back our students after spring break. We are deeply sorry for the tragic loss of our senior Kara Santorelli. We hold tight to beautiful memories that she had left with us. Her beautiful smile and kind spirit will continue to be in the hearts of her friends and classmates. We also extend our condolences to her family, praying that they find comfort and strength in the midst of their grief."
Santorelli's friends and family plan to hold a Sunrise Celebration of Life at 6:30 a.m., this Saturday, March 25, on Pensacola Beach, near the Pensacola Beach Gulf Pier, at 41 Fort Pickens Road in Gulf Breeze, Fla.