AUSTIN, Texas—The Austin Independent School District has released a statement about yesterday’s car accident near Barton Hills Elementary School. At this time, the Austin Police Department has not released the names of the individuals involved in the accident. Based on community and media reports, Paul Cruz, interim superintendent, shared the following message with the Austin High School community:

Our hearts are heavy as we absorb the news of the tragedy that occurred. The loss of two students and the critical injury to a third in a car accident has affected the entire school community. At times like these, we are all family, and we all mourn together.

Please accept my condolences, and know that our district’s staff and I are here to support you during this difficult time

AISD will provide additional counseling for students at the school. The district also encourages students, families and staff members to call the Austin Travis County’s mobile crisis outreach team for 24-hour counseling over the phone at 512-472-HELP (4357), the Christi Center at 512-467-2600 or My Healing Place at 472-7878.