Will Neeb died Monday, Dec. 16, when his car veered off Pickett District Road in New Milford around 8:10 a.m. and crashed into a fence, NBC Connecticut reported. Police said he died at the scene.
New Milford High School identified Neeb as the driver on Tuesday.
New Milford Public Schools Superintendent Janet Parlato released a statement mourning the loss and offering support to grieving students.
"Will was an excellent student who carried an honors course load, and he also contributed to the New Milford High School community as a member of the Athletic Council, as a two-year member of the NMHS hockey team, and as an All-State golfer," Parlato wrote. "Will was known for his kind heart, his friendliness to peers, and his diligence as a student. He will be tremendously missed by his peers and the staff of New Milford Public Schools."
Neeb was well-known throughout parts of the state as a premier athlete. Danbury Youth Lacrosse, where he played until 2022, said he had a promising future.
Several people on social media changed their profile pictures to the number 12, which Neeb wore while playing hockey.
New Milford police ask anyone with information about the crash to contact investigators at 860-355-3133.
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