A Hollidaysburg Area High School senior was killed in an ATV crash Friday morning, near Blue Knob.
Mikayla Focht, 18, was a softball standout and was set to graduate at the end of this term. She had signed on to play with Saint Francis University.
The crash happened as the driver of the ATV, Trenton Bilak, 23, was traveling south along Knob Road in Greenfield Township, just after 4 a.m. Bilak hit deer that were on the roadway, causing the ATV to overturn and throw both Bilak and Focht.
According to police, Bilak fled the scene and suffered minor injuries. Focht was pronounced dead at the scene. Neither were wearing helmets.
An autopsy was performed on Focht. The results are pending and an investigation continues.
A second crash happened at the same location, shortly after. Details on that crash are pending.
The school’s superintendent released a statement saying, “the district is deeply saddened by the tragic death of one our our brightest stars. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mikayla’s family, teammates and friends.”
The school’s softball team also released a statement:
“Mikayla had an extraordinary dedication and passion for softball and for her team. As captain, her enthusiasm, leadership and ability was something that all players aspired to. On behalf of the Hollidaysburg Lady Tiger softball coaching staff, our heart goes out to Mikayla’s family and teammates as we all cope together with this tragic loss.”