4 young Peoria women killed in 1-car crash, school mourns

PEORIA, Ill. (AP) - Teachers and staff at a central Illinois high school are mourning the weekend deaths of four young women who were killed when their vehicle left a roadway and slammed into a tree.

All four women killed in early Sunday's crash in Peoria were Manual Academy graduates. Authorities identified them as Jazzman Burns, 22, a 2016 graduate; Quanylan Thomas, 19, a 2019 graduate; and 18-year-olds Tyesha Thomas and Diamond Williams, both 2020 grads.

'œOne life lost is tragic; four from one event is unconscionable. My heart breaks for these families," said Peoria County Coroner Jamie Harwood.

Peoria police said the car carrying the women was traveling at a high speed about 3:45 a.m. Sunday when the driver lost control and struck a tree, the Journal Star reported.

All four were pronounced dead at the scene. Police and the coroner's office continue investigating the fatal crash. Autopsies and toxicology tests were pending.

Manual Academy planned to provide support Monday on the front lawn of the school for current and former Manual students affected by the deaths.

Principal Devon Hawks said in a statement that 'œthese young ladies will be missed and our hearts go out to their families and everyone impacted."