Central Mountain Grieves the Loss of Another Student

BALD EAGLE TOWNSHIP – Another approaching commencement season at Central Mountain High School has again been marred by the death of a senior class member and, this time, the death of her Senior Ball escort.

State police said Jordan King, 18, of Bellefonte, was the driver in a one car crash on Route 664 in Gallagher Township. Clinton County Coroner Zach Hanna pronounced King and his passenger, 17-year-old Carly Miller of Beech Creek, dead at the scene of the crash near Bryans Lane.

Time of the accident was listed at 3:27 a.m. Saturday, just hours after the victims had attended the Central Mountain Senior Ball at the Durrwachter Alumni Conference Center on the Lock Haven University campus.

Investigating officer Benjamin Campana said King’s 1997 sedan was heading south on Route 664 at a high rate of speed; the vehicle failed to negotiate a left curve, sliding sideways and striking a large tree, separating the car in half. The officer’s report said both operator and passenger were not wearing seatbelts and were ejected from the vehicle.

The fatal accident left friends of the victims stunned by the news. Classmate Heather Orndorf said Miller “always put a smile on everybody’s face.”

Keystone Central School District Superintendent Kelly Hastings said the school community has been devastated by the news. She said the district has provisions in place, including an announcement on the district website. The district is also using emails and text messages to high school parents to let them know there will be extra support if their children need such support.

The website announcement reads:

“As the Keystone Central family mourns the loss of a student and a former student, preparations have been made to assist those in need with grief counselors who will be available at Central Mountain High School.  Please contact the school with any questions or concerns. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends at this difficult time.”