Van ISD Mourns Student Killed in Weekend Crash

VAN — Van ISD announced on its Facebook page that the district is mourning a student who died following a car crash. According to the post, Fernando Vela, an 8th-grade student at Van Junior High School, died from injuries sustained in a single-car crash Saturday night. “Fernando had a lot of friends and students looked up to him,” said Van Junior High Principal Richard Pride. “He was a leader among his peers. He was energetic, athletic, respectful, and had a great love for his family. This is a sad day for the Van Junior High School family. Fernando will be greatly missed.”

“Fernando had a big heart and loved to help people. He probably tried harder than anyone in our football program. He loved football and loved being a Vandal,” said Coach Justin Stanfield. The Facebook post said counselors will be available at school for students beginning Monday “and will remain on campus for as long as they are needed.”