Falmouth Mourns the Tragic Loss of Ava Lodico, 18-Year-Old Honor Student Killed in Prom Night Crash
FALMOUTH, Mass. — The Falmouth community is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Ava Lodico, a beloved Falmouth High School senior and honor-roll student, who died late Saturday night in a single-vehicle crash on Acapesket Road. The accident occurred just hours after Ava had attended her senior prom at the Coonamessett Inn.
The Crash
According to Falmouth police, emergency responders were dispatched shortly before midnight to the 200 block of Acapesket Road, where they discovered a heavily damaged white Range Rover that had veered off the road and struck a tree. Ava, the sole occupant of the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Community Response
The news of Ava’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Falmouth community. Superintendent Lori Duerr stated, “The Falmouth community is heartbroken. Ava was an exceptional student and teammate whose kindness touched many.” In response, grief counselors were made available at the high school on Sunday, and additional mental health professionals from Falmouth Police, Falmouth Human Services, and the nonprofit Sharing Kindness will remain on campus throughout the week to support students and staff.
Investigation
Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. The Falmouth Accident Reconstruction Unit spent several hours at the scene collecting evidence. Police have not yet determined whether speed, impairment, or road conditions were factors in the accident. They are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or saw Ava’s vehicle prior to 11:45 p.m. to contact Sgt. Bryan Dutcher at 508-457-2527.
Remembering Ava
Ava was known for her academic excellence and was a member of the National Honor Society. She was weeks away from graduating and had plans to study nursing in the fall. Her teachers and peers remember her as a bright, compassionate individual who brought joy to those around her.
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday on the Falmouth High School football field to honor Ava’s memory.
As the community comes together to mourn, support is being offered to all affected by this tragedy. The loss of Ava Lodico is a profound reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.