HOSCHTON, Ga. — The Mill Creek High School community is mourning the loss of one of their own. Junior cheerleader Caitlyn Pollock was killed in a single-vehicle car accident on Saturday night, the team shared on social media.
Gwinnett County Police said the driver of the car, identified as 21-year-old Kyle McDowell, was traveling north on Sugarloaf Parkway toward State Route 316 when the he failed to navigate the entrance ramp and struck a concrete barrier.
Police said McDowell is recovering from minor injuries at the hospital and that he has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, first degree vehicular homicide and failure to maintain a lane.
Pollock, 16, was a front-seat passenger in the car. She died at the scene, police said.
"She was the love of our life," her father Paul Pollock told 11Alive. "She was loved by so many people, never met a stranger."
In a letter sent to parents on Sunday night, principal Jason Lane asked for prayers and said the school would hold a moment of silence for Pollock.
"Our hearts and thoughts are with the student's family, friends, and loved ones as they cope with this tremendous personal loss," Lane wrote.
He went on to say that counselors would be at the school for those who need additional support.
"This loss may raise many emotions, concerns, and questions from our school community, especially from some students," Lane added.
This is a developing story. Check back often for new information.
Also download the 11Alive News app and sign up to receive alerts for the latest on this story and other breaking news in Atlanta and north Georgia.