Pittsboro, NC – A second Northwood High School student has died following an accident on Old Graham Road in Chatham County on October 23. Sophomore Desmond Patterson, 16, was a passenger in the car. He was hospitalized in critical condition after the accident.
Junior Bryan Vilchis, 18, died at the scene of the accident.
“This is an extremely painful time for our Northwood staff and students,” said Superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson. “We grieve with Desmond’s and Bryan’s families and mourn their loss.”
School social workers and counselors are available at Northwood, offering support to staff and students.
Northwood Principal Bradford Walston said the loss of two students has been devastating.
“Our hearts go out to Desmond’s and Bryan’s families,” Walston said. “For both the students and staff who knew them personally or who have after this tragedy come to know the kind of young men they were, this has taken a heavy toll. We want our students and their families to know that we are here for them and will continue to provide whatever support our students need as they grieve.”