Teen Dead in One Vehicle Wreck

SMITH COUNTY — One teenager has been killed and two others injured in a one vehicle wreck in Smith County. It happened just after 9:00 Wednesday night on County Road 1178, near Highway 155, just South of FM 2661.

The Noonday Fire Department responded to the call and said the vehicle was completely in flames when they arrived. Officials said the accident involved two girls and one boy. According to KETK, the car veered off the road and into the woods, then burst into flames. Authorities believe speed was a factor in the crash. A man on the scene says the girl who died was pinned inside the vehicle, and that he tried to get her out but was unsuccessful. No word if the teens were wearing their seat belts.

The teen who died has been identified as 17-year-old Brytnie Stithem, a junior at Robert E. Lee High School. The two others involved in the accident are identified as C.J. Wilkerson and Brandon Page. Conditions of C.J. and Brandon are unknown at this time.

Tyler ISD Superintendent Dr. Randy Reid released the following statement:

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our students, Brytnie Leah Stithem. Our sympathy goes out to her family, friends, and classmates. We understand that many students will need time to heal, and we have counselors available to help students through this difficult time.”