A heartbreaking cloud has fallen over a Hampshire school after two boys from the same year group at Horndean Technology College sadly died in separate incidents—both on the same day.
The devastating news has left fellow students, teachers, and families in shock as they try to come to terms with the loss of two young lives.
One Boy Killed in Road Accident Involving Trailer
One of the boys, a 14-year-old Year Nine student, was tragically killed after being hit by a car towing a trailer.
The collision happened away from the school grounds.
Police later confirmed that a 24-year-old man from Waterlooville was arrested on suspicion of driving while unfit through drugs.
He has since been released while investigations continue.
Second Student’s Cause of Death Not Yet Confirmed
The circumstances surrounding the second boy’s death remain unclear at this stage.
What has been confirmed is that he, too, was a Year Nine student, and that his death was unrelated to the road incident.
Both tragedies occurred off-campus, and there is no link between the two incidents apart from the deeply painful coincidence that they happened on the same day.
School Issues Statement Offering Support and Condolences
In a heartfelt message sent to parents, headteacher Julie Summerfield expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the students’ families:
“Both students were valued members of HTC, and we will all miss them greatly.
Our thoughts are with their families and friends, and they are receiving appropriate support.”
She added that the school had already shared the news with pupils and that they were doing everything they could to support students during this “extremely difficult time.”
Support Resources Shared with Families
Understanding how hard it can be for parents and caregivers to navigate such tragic news, the school has also shared resources and links to help families speak to their children about grief, loss, and emotional wellbeing.
“We understand that families will want to support their children,” Ms. Summerfield said.
“We’ve provided some links to useful resources to help in conversations.”