A recent vehicular accident in Western Minnesota claimed the life of a high school graduate and former homecoming king. The accident was caused by a classmate who was under the influence of alcohol. Izak Schermerhorn, 18, has been charged with vehicular homicide for causing the fatal crash that resulted in the death of his friend, Blake Unger, also 18.
The accident scene revealed that Unger was trapped under Schermerhorn’s pickup truck. The evidence suggested that the vehicle had been driven aggressively before the accident. Schermerhorn, who had a history of alcoholism, confessed to consuming several alcoholic drinks on the night of the incident, which was a celebration of their graduation from New York Mills High School.
Schermerhorn expressed deep regret to the authorities, acknowledging that he had made a serious mistake and that his life was ruined due to his poor decision. He also confessed to intentionally driving recklessly to show off the sound of his modified exhaust, which ultimately led to the loss of control and the fatal crash.
Schermerhorn was charged with two counts of criminal vehicular homicide related to his intoxication and a third count alleging gross negligence. He appeared in court and was released on a $1,000 bail under the condition that he seeks counseling, abstains from drug or alcohol use, and stays out of trouble. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 10.
Unger was a well-liked figure at New York Mills High School, where he was a three-sport athlete and was crowned homecoming king in the previous fall. His sudden death has left the school community in shock and mourning.
The school’s District Superintendent, Adam Johnson, expressed his condolences in a statement to families, acknowledging the devastating impact of the incident on the entire community. The tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the irreversible consequences it can have on lives.