Zachary Parsons -- Facebook memorial photo

State Police have released the name of the Franklin County High School student killed in Monday afternoon’s accident. He is 17-year-old Zachary Ian Parsons of Boones Mill. State Police confirm he was a front seat passenger. Police are not yet releasing the names of the others involved, nor can they provide any information on the status of the driver.

It’s a difficult day at Franklin County High School, which held an assembly this morning to share what information it could, Eight guidance counselors are available to help students cope with the loss.

(Continue reading for more information and for extended comments from the school’s guidance coordinator)

Here are extended comments from Franklin County High School Guidance Coordinator Barry Whitlow:

[audio:http://wfirnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Whitlow-Extended-Web.mp3|titles=Whitlow Extended-Web]

The five-vehicle accident happened yesterday Route 122 just off Route 40 near Rocky Mount.  State police say the driver of the car, a 17-year-old female from Wirtz, was traveling fast and lost control.  She went into the wrong lane, hit several cars and a building.   Two other teen passengers and the driver of another vehicle went to the hospital.