Two Fairfield teens were hurt, one critically, when their Jeep skidded out and struck a utility pole while they were leaving Fairfield Ward High School on Wednesday, according to police.
Police said the students left school around 11 a.m. and drove westbound on Knapp Highway "at a high rate of speed." The Jeep skidded sideways when the driver tried to turn, smashing into a utility pole and snapping it in two places just down the road from the school.
The passenger suffered critical injuries. Both teens were taken to St. Vincent Medical Center for treatment and first responders called their parents, according to police.
School staff and emergency responders rushed to the scene of the crash. Police said counselors are available to provide emotional support to students and faculty members.
Knapp Highway is closed at Knapp Park Drive and will remain shut down through the evening, according to police. Authorities are asking drivers to avoid the area.
