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COLCHESTER, Conn. — Police are investigating after two teenagers were killed and another was seriously injured in a crash on Friday.

The collision occurred on Route 354 by Lake Hayward Road in Colchester, officials said.

RELATED: CT parents asked to remind teen drivers about safety as state sees rise in fatal crashes

State Police say the driver of a Nissan Altima tried to pass another vehicle on the road, before going off the road, crashing into the metal beam guardrail and down an embankment.

The driver was later identified as 18-year-old Jacob Chapman, of Colchester. He was transported to the Marlborough Medical Clinic, where he was pronounced deceased.

Western Connecticut State University confirmed the three teens were members of the Lacrosse team.

(1/5) To the WCSU Community, It is with great sadness that I must convey the terrible news that three members of the WestConn Men’s Lacrosse Team were involved in a deadly traffic accident Friday afternoon.

WCSU President John Clark released a statement regarding the crash. 

To the WCSU Community, It is with great sadness that I must convey the terrible news that three members of the WestConn Men’s Lacrosse Team were involved in a deadly traffic accident Friday afternoon. Two students died in the accident. A third was airlifted from the scene to a hospital. We do not yet have information on his condition and we are withholding the names of all three for the time being. Our Counseling Center has met with players and coaches of the lacrosse team and we will also provide counseling to students in Litchfield Hall, where the three team members lived on campus, as well as any students in need. I will provide more information to the WCSU community as it becomes available. The University will also do all it can to support their families in this very difficult time. 

Dr. John B. Clark President

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One passenger, Tyler Graham, 18, of Colchester was pronounced deceased on scene, according to State Police.

The second passenger, also a teen, was airlifted to the hospital with serious injuries. The extent of his injuries is unknown at this time.

The area of Route 354 by Lake Hayward Road was reopened after being closed for approximately five hours. 

The crash remains under investigation.

RELATED: Suspect arrested in fatal hit-and-run that killed 14-year-old in Higganum: police

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