Wayne Hills teens who died in crash 'dearly missed' by all, school official says
WAYNE — The two boys from Wayne Hills High School who died in a car crash last month were huge gamers who excelled in their automotive technology classes and made all their teachers proud, the superintendent said in the first public statement about the tragedy.
Schools Superintendent Mark Toback said Christian Enrico, 17, and his friend, Liam Pakonis, 16, each possessed unique qualities and that they will be “dearly missed” by high school staff and students.
The brief statement was made on Thursday at the beginning of a Board of Education meeting in the media center at Anthony Wayne Middle School. Several dozen people were there because trustees were scheduled to hand out certificates to students for music honors.
After Toback read the statement, which was prepared by high school staff, the audience observed a moment of silence.
Authorities said the crash happened at 9:41 p.m. on March 31 in Butternuts, New York, a rural town almost three hours north of the township. The teenagers were reportedly going to a cabin, where they planned to enjoy fishing and off-roading during their weeklong spring recess.
An investigation by state troopers found a Chenango County sheriff’s deputy tried to pull over Christian, who was driving, but that he did not obey the officer and crashed into a tree after a pursuit, authorities said. The reason for the attempted traffic stop has not been disclosed.
Christian was “fun-loving” and “kind-hearted,” and according to the superintendent, he was focused on mastering his skills in the Japanese combat sport of jiujitsu. He also had a habit of asking everyone with whom he interacted how they were doing. His concern for others, Toback said, was genuine.
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Liam, a member of the swim team, was “full of energy” and very curious — he always questioned how and why things were the way that they were, the superintendent said. He was also a fan of the Marvel Universe film series, particularly “The Avengers” and “Iron Man.” He knew “every line to every movie,” Toback said, and he was not shy about reciting them.
An online fundraiser was organized on behalf of Christian’s family. As of Friday, almost $6,100 was collected through 57 donations.
Liam’s family requested donations to be made to the swim team’s boosters, in care of Christine Gentile, 33 Marlton Drive, Wayne, NJ 07470. Donations will also be accepted through Venmo, @waynehillsswim2022. The money will go toward a scholarship fund in Liam’s name.
Philip DeVencentis is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
Email: devencentis@northjersey.com
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Fundraisers launch for Wayne NJ boys killed in NY car crash
