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Teen killed, another injured in Franklin County wreck on way to school

One Franklinton High School student died and another was injured Tuesday morning in a wreck on Cedar Creek Road, according to the school system.

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FRANKLINTON, N.C. — One Franklinton High School student died and another was injured Tuesday morning around 7:30 a.m.in a wreck on Cedar Creek Road near Hicks Road, according to the school system.

A preliminary investigation reveals Timothy Henry Coley, 18, was driving a 2003 Volkswagen Jetta when he lost control of his car and struck a fence. Coley was taken to Wake Medical Center North with minor injuries.

Jamariuse Quan Gibbs, 17, of Franklinton, the passenger in the car, died at the scene of the crash, according to North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

A spokesman for the school system told WRAL that the students were in the car together at the time of the wreck, which happened near the intersection with Hicks Road shortly before 8 a.m.

Charges are pending a further investigation of the collision. Highway Patrol said speed was a contributing factor.

The school system released a statement, describing the wreck as "indescribably difficult."

"As a district, our thoughts and prayers go out to the Gibbs family and all those involved in this tragic incident and we will continue to do all that we can to support our community. As of this morning, grief counselors have been on campus at Franklinton High School to support our students and staff. School officials have made the media center available for students to gather as needed as they work through this difficult time."

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