“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Binghamton High School junior Harper Stantz. Harper passed away as the result of a Monday aftermoon car accident on the west-side of Binghamton,” according to a statement issued Wednesday by the Binghamton School District. “She brightened the lives of all who knew her, and she will be profoundly missed. We extend our deepest condolences and support to the Stantz family as they cope with this immense loss.
“Our continued thoughts are also with the family of Binghamton High School graduate Britney Laserinko, who was seriously injured in the accident and remains under medical observation (Wednesday) at a Syracuse hospital. Britney has undergone significant surgery, and is currently in stable condition (Wednesday).
“The district has social workers, guidance counselors, psychologists and therapy dogs in place at the high school for any students or staff in need of support throughout today. Additionally, although school is not in session for students tomorrow, Thursday, March 14th, BHS will be open to any student who needs guidance and counseling. These students may report to the Guidance Office,” the statement concluded.
Prior to her death, Binghamton police identified the driver of the vehicle as Kevin L. Wilcox (DOB – 01/04/86) of Harpursville, NY. After the accident, Wilcox was arrested and initially charged with Penal Law Offense; Vehicular Assault First Degree, a Class D-Felony and Vehicle and Traffic Law Offense; Driving While Ability Impaired by Drugs (DWAI – drugs), an Unclassified Misdemeanor.
News release from Binghamton Police Department: On March 11, 2019 at 3:26 P.M. the members of the Binghamton Police Department responded to a report of a vehicle collision with two pedestrians struck on Beethoven Street near Lincoln Avenue in the City of Binghamton. The police investigation of the matter determined that a Jeep Wrangler was traveling southbound on Beethoven Street and left the roadway crossing over the east side curb line of the roadway and striking two pedestrians. Both pedestrians were Westside residents walking together from Recreation Park, both were female teenagers.
The Jeep continued southbound through the front yards of 44 and 42 Beethoven Street and after striking two trees, came to rest at the corner of Beethoven Street and Lincoln Avenue. The driver of the vehicle was detained at the scene and found to be uninjured. The driver was suspected to be under the influence of drugs.
